2022

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage

CONTENTS
In FY2017, which marked the 10th
anniversary of its establishment,
the NICH adopted a new logo.
Logo concept: Linkage
The logo design combines knotted
cords with a shape resembling the
DNA double helix.
The knotted cords represent
linkage between people andcultures (i.e. cultural heritage),while the DNA represents linkage
between past, present and future(i.e. cultural transmission).
The logo represents the core
mission of the NICH, which is tofoster an in-depth understandingof cultural DNA and transmit
awareness of the importance of
cultural heritage to people all over
the world.

Cover Photos
TOKYO NATIONAL MUSEUM
Honkan(Japanese Gallery)

Message …………………………………………………………………………1

Ⅰ

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage ………2

Ⅱ

Projects of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage ……6

Ⅲ

Activities of Each Institution

Ⅳ

Reference Materials ………………………………………………… 26

１

Preservation and Transmission of Tangible Cultural Properties, andUtilization of Cultural Properties to Disseminate Japanʼs History andTraditional Culture Nationally and Internationally ………………………………… 6（１）
Collection and Preservation of Tangible Cultural Properties, andTransmission of Tangible Cultural Properties to Future
Generations
Acquisition
Conservation and Restoration（２）
Exhibitions
Exhibitions
Number of Visitors（３）
Education and Outreach Activities（４）
Research on the Collection, Preservation, and Exhibition of Tangible Cultural Properties, and Educational Activities（５）
Contribution to Museum-related Activities in Japan and Abroad（６）
New Initiatives Concerning the Transmission of Cultural Heritage
Through the Promotion of Cultural Properties
２ Implementing Research and Collaborative Projects for the Protection ofCultural Properties and Overseas Cultural Heritage …………………………… 8（１）
Research Leading to New ldeas（２）
Basic Research for the Improvement of Research andDevelopment Utilizing Science and Technology（３）International Collaboration for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage（４）Collecting and Collating Information Relating to Cultural
Properties, and Publicizing and Utilizing the Results of Surveys andResearch（５）
Provision of Training for, and Collaboration with, Local
Government Authorities in Relation to Cultural Properties（６）
Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Initiatives

KYOTO NATIONAL MUSEUM
Meiji Kotokan

NARA NATIONAL MUSEUM
Nara Buddhist Sculpture HallKYUSHU NATIONAL MUSEUMTOKYO NATIONAL RESEARCHINSTITUTE FOR CULTURALPROPERTIESNARA NATIONAL RESEARCHINSTITUTE FOR CULTURALPROPERTIES

Main Building

INTERNATIONAL RESEARCHCENTRE FOR INTANGIBLE
CULTURAL HERITAGE IN THE
ASIA-PACIFIC REGION (IRCI)Tokyo National Museum ……………………………………………………………… 10
Kyoto National Museum ……………………………………………………………… 12
Nara National Museum ………………………………………………………………… 14
Kyushu National Museum …………………………………………………………… 16
Tokyo National Research Institute forCultural Properties ……………………………………………………………………… 18
Nara National Research Institute forCultural Properties ……………………………………………………………………… 20
International Research Centre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Paciﬁc Region（IRCI）…………………………… 22
National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties …………………… 24
Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Center………………………… 25

Directors
Special Advisory Board
External Evaluation Board
Number of Staﬀ
Organizational Chart
BudgetIncome from External Sources

Information about Donations and Membership ……………… 28
Financial Donations and Cultural Property Donations
Membership
New Initiatives of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage

Message
SHIMATANI Hiroyuki
President
Independent Administrative Institution
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage(Executive Director, Kyushu National Museum)

The National Institutes for Cultural Heritage (NICH) comprises seven institutions, eachwith their own unique characteristics. These include four museums (Tokyo National
Museum, Kyoto National Museum, Nara National Museum and Kyushu National Museum),
two research institutes (Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties andNara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties), and the International ResearchCentre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region.
This fiscal year marks the second year of our fifth medium-term development plan. Our
national museums will continue to utilize their accumulated experience and knowledge
to collect and conserve cultural artifacts in a systemically and historically balancedmanner while utilizing the results of research to develop captivating exhibitions andeducational programs. Our two research institutes and the International Research Centre
for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region will continue to conduct basic
and systemic research aimed at uncovering new knowledge about our cultural heritage.
The National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties (CPCP), a body establishedin the headquarters of the NICH, will facilitate encounters with cultural properties bydeveloping content, promoting model projects, and undertaking loan promotion projects.
Furthermore, the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Center will strive toprotect and rescue a wide range of cultural properties from disaster by constructing
systems for coordination and collaboration, developing technology, raising awarenessand disseminating information.
During the term of this development plan, we will strive to conserve our fragile culturalproperties in an appropriate manner while utilizing the latest technology and adopting
a diverse range of methods to provide an environment where people can encounter andenjoy learning about Japan's history, traditions and culture. We will also contribute tocultural tourism in Japan by actively utilizing our cultural resources and conveying theappeal of this cultural heritage is a manner easy to comprehend for both Japanese andnon-Japanese people alike. As we continue to face many restrictions due to COVID-19,
we will also need to seek out and establish ways to adapt our projects to ‘newlifestyles.’Our institutions face difficult circumstances and numerous challenges. With finances
tight, we need to increase our own sources of income while tackling the issue of ageing
facilities/equipment and striving to retain and develop staff, for example. We are tasked
with preserving our cultural heritage while presenting opportunities for many people
to appreciate and learn about this heritage. It is our responsibility to convey the deep
connection between these activities and the vitality of modern Japanese culture.
From here on, we will continue pushing forward step by step while retaining athoroughgoing awareness of the roles we need to fulfil. We look forward to receiving yourcontinued support in these endeavors.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

1

Ⅰ Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
The Independent Administrative Institution (IAI), National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, was formed in April 2007 through themerging of the IAI National Museums (Tokyo National Museum, Kyoto National Museum, Nara National Museum, and Kyushu
National Museum) and the IAI National Research Institutes for Cultural Properties (Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties and Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties), all of which share the same mission: the conservation
and utilization of cultural properties. With the addition of the International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in
the With the addition of the International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region, which wasestablished in October 2011, the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage now comprise a total of seven separate institutions.
Furthermore, the National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties and the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management
Center (established within the NICH headquarters) carry out their respective tasks in close cooperation with each institution.
Japan's cultural properties are the precious assets of the Japanese people. In order to preserve and utilize these properties
more effectively and efficiently under unified management, each of the seven existing institutions plays the following roles:

Tokyo National Museum

Kyoto National Museum

Nara National Museum

As Japan’s foremost museum in thehumanities field, Tokyo National Museum collects, preserves, manages,
and displays cultural properties fromacross Japan and other Asian regions,while also conducting research and providing educational programs.

The Kyoto National Museum collects,preserves, manages, and exhibits
cultural properties, while also
conducting research and providing
educational programs. The focus ison works from the Heian period to
the Edo period. a time when Kyoto
was the capital of Japan.

Nara National Museum collects, preserves, manages, and displays culturalproperties, while also conducting research and providing educational programming. The focus is Buddhist art
and the cultural properties of Nara.

Kyushu National Museum

Tokyo National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties

Nara National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties

Tokyo National Research Institutefor Cultural Proper ties conducts
research on Japanese cultural properties, utilizing a variety of methods.
In addition to publicizing and utilizing
the results of this research, as a national center for international cooperation, the institute also facilitates
global research into the protectionof cultural heritage.

In order to preserve and utilize culturalpr oper ties, t he Insitit ut e conduc t s
coordinated and comprehensive surveys
across a variety of fields (including
archeology, history, architecture, gardens,
and conservation) at various sites, including
the Nara Palace and Asuka/Fujiwara sites,
the great temples of Nara, and otherancient shrines and temples. At the sametime, the Institute cooperates and adviseson the conservation and utilization of both
domestic and overseas cultural properties.

Kyushu National Museum engages in
the collection, preservation, exhibition,and research of cultural properties, aswell as educational outreach, with afocus on Japan's history of cultural exchange with Asia.

International Research Centre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region
This institution promotes researchthat contributes to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in the AsiaPacific region, and also collects anddisseminates information relating tointernational trends in the safeguarding of ICH.

←To Ikebukuro
Station卍 KaneijiTokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural Properties

Ueno juniorHigh School

Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8712
Phone: +81-3-3822-1111

KurodaMemorial HallThe University
Art Museum-Tokyo
University of the Arts

Main Gate

Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum

Ueno parkhttps://www.tnm.jp/
Ueno Zoo

Visitor Information

Hours：9:30–17:00※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing
Closed：Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on Monday and closed on Tuesday). The Museum will also be closed during theyear-end and New year holiday (December 26–January 1) ,and on February
7. However, the Museum will be open on May 2, August 15, January 3 andMarch 27.
※Please note that opening days and hours are subject to change

2

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

Shinobugaoka
Junior High School

TOKYO NATIONAL
West
MUSEUM
Gate

International Library ofchildren’s Literature

13-9 Ueno Park,

JR Uguisudani
StationtempleNational Museumof Nature andScienceNational Museumof Western Art
Park Exit
Tokyo Metropolitan
Festival Hall

JR UenoStation↑ To Tokyo Station

TOKYO NATIONAL MUSEUM

Access●Train1
 0 minute walk from the Park Exit of JR Ueno Station or fromthe South Exit of JR Uguisudani Station. 15 minute walk from
Ueno Station or Nezu Station (Tokyo Metro), or from Keisei
Ueno Station (Keisei Electric Railway Keisei Line).

Admission: Adults: 1,000 yen
University students: 500 yen※An additional charge is required for special exhibitions※Any person with disabilities and one accompanying caregiver are
admitted free※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to regular exhibitions※Admission to regular exhibitions is free on International Museum
Day (May 18 or the following day if May 18 falls on a Monday),Respect for the Aged Day (the third Monday of September), andCulture Day (November 3).
※T o celebrate TNM’s 150th anniversary, entry to Regular
Exhibitions will be free of charge from July 20–July 24, 2022.

Phone: +81-75-541-1151(Main switchboard)
https://www.kyohaku.go.jp/

Kintetsu
Kyoto Line

Kennin-ji
TempleHigasStre hioji
etKaw
Stre abata
et
Yam
atoo
Stre
ji
et

Kaw
Stre aramac
hi
et

River
Shichijo
StreetKeih
Railwanay

605-0931 Japan

Higashi Hongan-ji
TempleKamo

527 Chaya-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto

HokokuShrineKyoto National
Museumijo
Shichon
Stati

Gojo Street

Karasuma
StreetSubway Karasuma Line

Horikawa
Street

KYOTO NATIONAL MUSEUM

AccessChishaku-in
TempleSanjusangendo
TempleJR Kyoto
Station

JR Tokaido Line
Shinkansen Line

JR Nara Line

Transportation: ●Bus

Visitor InformationA t Kyoto Station, take City Bus from bus platform D2. Get

Hours: 9:30–17:00

off at the Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae bus stop in※Museum hours may change during Special Exhibition periods, etc.

front of the Museum.

※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing●TrainClosed: Mondays (If Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on Monday andK intetsu Railway: Get off at Kintetsu Tanbabashi Station

closed on Tuesday). However, the Museum will be open on January 2 and during theand transfer to the Keihan Railway. From Keihan Tanbabashi

year-end and New Year holiday (December 26–January 1)

Station take a Demachi-yanagi-bound train to Shichijo Sta-

※The Collection Galleries may be closed during Special Exhibitions or while Specialtion. Walk eastward along Shichijo (Nanajo) Street for about

Exhibitions are being installed or deinstalled.

7 minutes to the Museum.

※Additionally, the Museum may be closed temporarily.

K eihan Railway: Get off at Shichijo Station. Walk eastward

Admission: Adults: 700 yen

along Shichijo (Nanajo) Street for about 7 minutes to the

University students: 350 yen

Museum.

※ A separate admission charge applies during periods when only SpecialH ankyu Railway: Get off at Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. Walk

Exhibitions, the Collection Galleries, and the Museum Gardens are open to

eastward over the bridge to the Keihan Railway Gion Shijo

visitors.

Station. Take an Osaka-bound Keihan train to Shichijo Sta-※Any person with disabilities and one accompanying caregiver are admitted freetion. Walk eastward along Shichijo (Nanajo) Street for about※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to the Collection Galleries

7 minutes to the Museum.

※Please note that opening days and hours are subject to change

NARA NATIONAL MUSEUM

AccessTodaiji
TempleN
W

Himuro Jinja 卍
NaraShrinePrefectural
Office underpass

E
S
Kintetsu
Nara Station

50 Noborioji-cho, Nara City

Noborioji Street

Kohfukuji
Temple 卍

JR
Sta Naration

Nara Prefecture 630-8213
Phone: +81-742-22-7771(Main switchboard)

Sanjo Street

https://www.narahaku.go.jp/

Visitor Information
Hours: 9:30–17:00※On Saturdays (excluding the year-end and New Year holiday period).

KasugaTaisha Shrine

Nara National Museum卍

Gangoji
Temple●TrainKintetsu Line: 15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station.
●BusTake the Nara City Loop Line from JR or Kintetsu Nara Station to the Himuro Jinja/Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan bus stop.

Admission: Adults: 700 yen

Permanent Collection exhibitions and feature exhibitions are open

University students: 350 yen

until 20:00※An additional charge is required for special exhibitions※Opening hours are occasionally extended during special seasonal
events in the Nara area
※Opening hours for special exhibitions and joint exhibitions vary by
exhibition※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing※Any person with disabilities and one accompanying caregiverare admitted free※P ersons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to thePermanent Collection exhibitions※Free admission to the Permanent Collection exhibitions on

Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the museum will be open on

International Museum Day (May 18, or the following day if

Monday and closed on Tuesday) and during the year-end and New

May 18 falls on a Monday), Kansai Culture Day, the day ofYear holiday (December 28–January 1)

the Owatari-Shiki procession in the On-Matsuri Festival, and※The Museum may also be closed on other days due to special cir-on Setsubun (February 3)

cumstances※Please note that opening days and hours are subject to change

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

3

KYUSHU NATIONAL MUSEUM
4-7-2 Ishizaka, Dazaifu, Fukuoka

Access35

Japan 818-0118
Phone: +81-092-918-2807

Dazaifu Tenmangū
Shrinehttps://www.kyuhaku.jp/en
Nishitetsu
Dazaifu
StationNis
Da hitetzaif suuL
ine

Visitor Information

Opening hours: 9:30–17:00※Kyuhaku after Five—extended opening hours until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays※Last admission 30 minutes before closing time
Closed: M ondays (except public holidays, in which case the following working day), end-of-year holidays(24–31 Dec 2022)
Admission fees: 700 yen (adults), 350 yen (university students)※Admission fees for Special Exhibitions are charged separately※F ree admission for individuals with disability documentation, and up to one
accompanying person※F ree admission to the permanent Cultural Exchange Exhibition for visitors aged 70 and¯¯
Komyozenji
Temple76
Chikushino-Dazaifu Line●By trainF rom Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station, take the Nishitetsu Tenjin Ōmuta line to Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station (about
16 minutes by Limited Express train and about 18 minutes
by Express train). Change to the Nishitetsu Dazaifu line andget off at Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station (about 5 minutes). The
museum is about 10 minutes on foot from the station.
*No additional charge is required for boarding the Limited Express or Express trains.
F rom JR Hakata Station, take the Kagoshima Main Line to
JR Futsukaichi Station (about 15 minutes by Express train).
Disembark and walk (about 12 minutes) or take a bus (about
6 minutes) to Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station. Take the      Nishitetsu Dazaifu line to the museum as explained above.

above, students of high school level or lower, and visitors under the age of 18※A dmission to the permanent Cultural Exchange Exhibition is free-of-charge to all
visitors on International Museum Day (18 May, or the following working day if 18 May
falls on a Monday) and Respect for the Elderly Day*Please note that opening hours and days may change due to unforeseen circumstances.

KyushuNational
Museum

●By carK yushu Expressway: About 20 minutes from either the
Dazaifu Interchange or the Chikushino Interchange via the
Takao Intersection.
F ukuoka Urban Expressway: About 20 minutes from the Mizuki exit via the Takao Intersection.
●By taxiA bout 15 minutes from JR Futsukaichi Station. About 30
minutes from Fukuoka Airport.
●By busA t Hakata Bus Terminal, head for bus stop no. 11 on thefirst floor and take the bus bound for Dazaifu. Disembark at
Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station (about 40 minutes’ ride). The museum is about 10 minutes on foot from the station.

TOKYO NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR
CULTURAL PROPERTIES卍 Kaneiji

JR Uguisudani
StationtempleUeno juniorHigh School
International Library ofchildren’s Literature

TOKYO NATIONAL
MUSEUM

Kuroda Memorial HallThe University
Art Museum-Tokyo
University of the Arts

Shinobugaoka
Junior High School

Tokyo National
Research Institute forCultural Properties

Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum

Ueno Zoo

Ueno park

National Museumof Nature andScienceNational Museumof Western Art
Park Exit
Tokyo Metropolitan
Festival Hall

To Tokyo Station

https://www.tobunken.go.jp/←To Ikebukuro
Station

JR UenoStationPhone: +81-3-3823-2241

Access↑13-43 Ueno Park,Taito-ku,Tokyo, 110-8713●Train
JR Line 10 minute walk from the South Exit of
Uguisudani Station, or 15 minute walk from thePark Exit of Ueno Station.
Tokyo Metro Ginza or Hibiya Line 20 minute walkfrom Ueno Station.
Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line 20 minute walk from
Nezu Station.
K eisei Line 20 minute walk from Keisei Ueno
Station.

4

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

NARA NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR
CULTURAL PROPERTIES
AccessHeijo Area

Asuka and Fujiwara Areao→Kashihara
jingo shrine←To Osaka
Abenobashi

Kashihara
Kintetsu Minami jingu-mae Sta.
Osaka LineThe Institute and the Nara Palace Site Museum●TrainKintetsu Line: 10 minutes from the North Exit of
Yamato Saidaiji Station.
●BusFrom JR and Kintetsu Nara Stations, take the Nara
Kotsu Bus and get off at the Nijocho bus stop.

Visitor Information(Asuka/Fujiwara)

Route 169

Omiya St.

To Kintetsu Nara→

Kintetsu
kashihara Line
Unebi goryomae
Sta.

Shin Omiya
Sta.

JR-WestＮara Sta.

e←To Osaka

Route24

Kintetsu Kashihara Line←To Kashiharajingu-mae

Nara Lin

Ichijo St

Mt AmanokaguyamaaKintetsu

To Sakurai→
To Sakurai→

Fujiwara Department of Imperial
Palace Site Palace Sites Investigations

Route 24

w
ga r
ka ve
su Ri

SuzakuGate

Miminashi
Sta.
JR Sakurai LineA

2-9-1 Nijo-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8577
Phone: +81-742-30-6733
https://www.nabunken.go.jp/

Nara palace
East Palace
Site
GardenRoute 165
JR Unebi
Sta.

←To Takada

t
es ne
-W Li
JR sainKa

Nara National
Research Institutefor Cultural
Properties

zu
Ki

Y
←T Said amatooa
Na Osak iji Sta
mb a
.
a

Kintetsu Osaka Line

Yamato←To Osaka Yagi Sta.
Uehonmachi

To

Nara Palace
Site Museum

Former Imperial
Audience Hall
Excavation Site
Exhibition Hall←

To Kyot

Asuka HistoricalMuseumOkuyama kumedera
temple↓To Yoshino

Asuka Niimasu
Jinjya shrine

Yamadadera
templeDepartment of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations(Asuka/Fujiwara)●Taxi
20 minutes from Kintetsu Yamato Yagi Station.
The Asuka Historical Museum●Taxi
20 minutes from Kintetsu Kashihara Jingu Mae
Station.
●Bus
From either Kintetsu Kashihara Jingu Mae Station
or Kintetsu Asuka Station, take the Kame Bus andget off at the Asuka Okuyama Asuka HistoricalMuseum West bus stop.
From JR/Kintetsu Sakurai Station, take the Nara
Kotsu Bus and get off at the Asuka HistoricalMuseum bus stop.

●Asuka Historical Museum
Hours: 9:00–16:30 (last entry at 16:00)●Nara Palace Site Museum

Hours: 9:00–16:30 (free admission; last entry at 16:00)
Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on
Monday and closed on Tuesday) and during the year-end and New Yearholiday (December 29–January 3)
Phone: +81-742-30-6753 (Collaboration Promotion Division)●Exhibition Room of the Fujiwara Palace Site
Hours: 9:00–16:30 (free admission)
Closed: During the year-end and New Year holiday (December 29–January 3) andduring exhibition renewal periods
Phone: +81-744-24-1122 (Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations for

Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be
open on Monday and closed on Tuesday) and during theyear-end and New Year holiday (December 26–January 3)
Admission: Adults: 350 yen
University students: 200 yen※A n additional charge may be required for special
exhibitions※A ny person with disabilities and one accompanying
caregiver are admitted free※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free
Phone: +81-744-54-3561 (Asuka Historical Museum)

Asuka and Fujiwara)

INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE FOR INTANGIBLE
CULTURAL HERITAGE IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION (IRCI)
AccessShin-osaka

Highway
Sakai Exit

To Namba

https://www.irci.jp

N
Koy ankaia Line

JR Hanwa Line

NintokuTenno-ryo
Kofun
Bus Stop
Hakubutukan-mae

IRCI
Goryodori
Daisennishimachi2cho

Mikun

igaokaMozu

Hankai Line
GoryomaeTennojii

Phone:+81-72-275-8050

shiga

Sakai City, Osaka 590-0802

kaih

Sa

Sakai City Museum, 2 cho Mozusekiun-cho, Sakai-ku,

City OfficeOsaka

To Kansai
Airport●TrainJR Hanwa Line: 6 minutes from Mozu Station.
●BusN ankai Bus: 4 minutes from the Sakaishi Hakubutsukanmae bus stop.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

5

Ⅱ

Projects of the National Institutes for Cultural
Heritage
The Undertakings of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage include:
Preservation and Transmission of Tangible Cultural Properties, andUtilization of Cultural Properties to Disseminate Japan’s History andTraditional Culture Nationally and Internationally１（1）Collection and Preservation of Tangible Cultural Properties, and Transmission of
Tangible Cultural Properties to Future Generations
As core institutions involved in the preservation and transmission of history and traditional culture, each museum collects objects
according to its own individual collection policy to ensure that its collection is systematically and historically balanced.
We also work closely with the Agency for Cultural Affairs to encourage donations and long-term loans from private owners, utilizing
the System of Enrolled Art Objects, for example, or by improving the inheritance tax system to make donations of objects easier.
Japan’s cultural properties are the precious assets of the Japanese people. In order to pass on this heritage to future
generations, we implement thorough management of items in the collections, and make efforts to improve the environments for these
items while working systematically to conserve them, with those requiring urgent treatment given priority. This work is carried out
through the coordinated efforts of NICH's conservators and professionals of conservation science as well as specialists (both internaland external) in the fields of conservation science and restoration technology, using both traditional techniques and modern scientificmethods. Conservation studios and other facilities also recognize the need to protect cultural properties from natural disasters, andare working with the government to make further preparations.

■Acquisition

We continually strive to acquire cultural properties through purchases and donations with the aim of:（1）building collections
that are both systematically and historically balanced, and（2）preventing the dispersion of private collections and the export oftangible cultural properties from Japan. Furthermore, the four museums each accept long-term loans from temples, shrines, andprivate collectors in order to further enhance their distinctive regular exhibitions.

Number of Items in the Museum Collections

Total

Total

Tokyo National Museum

ImportantNational
CulturalTreasures
Properties

Total

１３１，
７７１ １３５１，
００６ １２０，
０７３

ImportantNational
CulturalTreasures
Properties
８９

６４８（Entries）

Kyoto National Museum
Total
８，
２７９

ImportantNational
CulturalTreasures
Properties
２９

２００

Nara National Museum Kyushu National Ｍuseum
Total

ImportantNational
CulturalTreasures
Properties

１，
９３０

１３

１１４

Nara National Research Institute holds 1 National Treasure and 5 Important Cultural Properties.

Total
１，
４８９

ImportantNational
CulturalTreasures
Properties
４

４４（Figures as of March 31, 2022）

Nara National
Research Institute forCultural Properties
ImportantNational
CulturalTreasures
Properties
1
5

Number of Items on Long-term Loan to the Museums
Total（Entries）

Tokyo National Museum Kyoto National Museum Nara National Museum Kyushu National Museum

Important
Important
Important
Important
ImportantNational
National
National
National
National
Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
CulturalTreasures
Treasures
Treasures
Treasures
Treasures
Properties
Properties
Properties
Properties
Properties
１２，
５１３

１９７

１，
２０１

２，
６５１

５４

２６２

６，
５６２

９０

６１９

１，
９５６

５３

３０９

１，
３４４

２

１３

（Figures as of March 31, 2022）■Conservation and Restoration

Tangible cultural properties preserved in museum collections need to be conserved approximately once every 100 years. The
Institutes carry out two levels of conservation work: minimal treatments that allow for the safe display and storage of theobjects: and full-scale treatments, carried out systematically in accordance with the conditions of the objects.

（２）Exhibitions
We disseminate information both nationally and internationally to promote understanding of the history and traditional culture ofJapan and other Asian regions. For this purpose, we hold attractive exhibitions and high-quality displays that reflect both visitor
needs and the latest academic trends, while also taking into consideration the needs of international cultural exchange.
In addition, we constantly strive to make our museums more visitor-friendly and more in tune with ‘new lifestyles’ by setting
flexible opening hours and creating multilingual and accessible environments, with extensive information for visitors to enhancethe overall museum experience. We are also making improvements to museum management in response to visitor feedback.

■Exhibitions

Each museum holds its own distinctive regular and special exhibitions to provide opportunities for visitors to engage withtraditional art and archaeological objects, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. We also collaborate
with museums overseas to hold exhibitions that introduce a variety of cultures.

6

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

■Number of Visitors（FY 2021）
Total

Tokyo National Museum

Kyoto National Museum

Nara National Museum

Kyushu National Museum

1,435,862

836,720

132,793

253,196

213,153

New display from January 2022 dedicated to Imariporcelains exported to Europe (Kyushu National

Museum)Special Thematic Exhibition in Celebration of the Tokyo
2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Sports NIPPON(Tokyo National Museum) (July 13–September 20, 2021)（３）Education and Outreach Activities
To promote understanding of the history and traditional culture of Japan and other Asian regions, we provide a variety of educational programs, such as lectures and workshops, in cooperation with schools and other educational institutions, based on aconsideration of ‘new lifestyles.’Furthermore, we work with universities to provide professional training and we support volunteer activities with the aim of further
improving our educational programs. We also implement training programs for museum professionals, conservators, and others.
Finally, we actively utilize the internet to disseminate information about cultural properties, collect and display materials, andpublicize details about exhibitions and educational activities to a domestic and international audience.

The “Stories of the Kyoto National Museum”
website and the “Become an Expert on Guardian
Lions and Lion Dogs!” video are available in multiple
languages. (Kyoto National Museum)

The Oita Prefecture Online Broadcast Program(Nara National Museum)（４）Research on the Collection, Preservation, and Exhibition of Tangible Cultural
Properties, and Educational Activities
We conduct surveys and research relating to the collection, preservation, andexhibition of tangible cultural properties, as well as educational activities, on asystematic basis; organize international symposia to which leading researchers
are invited; arrange for NICH staff to work at overseas research institutes andattend international conferences; and conduct research while accumulating thelatest information.
The results obtained from our surveys and research are publicized using avariety of methods, including publications and the internet, thereby contributing
to the transmission of cultural properties to the next generation and to the promotion of Japanese culture.

Life-sized model of a king’s tomb at Mikumominamishōji (Itoshima, Fukuoka). Used in events
where participants can learn about jar coffin
burials by burying and being buried in one. (Kyushu

National Museum)（５）Contribution to Museum-related Activities in Japan and Abroad
We actively loan our collections out for exhibitions at other museums within
Japan and overseas based on a comprehensive consideration of conservation
conditions and environments.
We also strive to exchange information with and provide specialist/technical guidance and advice to other museums and galleries within Japan and overseas.

International Symposium Museums and Online
Initiatives: Practice and Prospects (January
29, 2022)

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

7

（６）N
 ew Initiatives Concerning the Transmission of Cultural Heritage Throughthe Promotion of Cultural Properties
We endeavor to unlock the hidden charms and values of culturalproperties so they can be utilized to provide rich experiences andlearning opportunities. We will also strive to faithfully transmit thiscultural heritage to future generations while finding new ways toutilize these treasures to promote regional revitalization and tourism.

The “Timeline of Japanese Art” display at Tokyo National
Museum (National Center for the Promotion of Cultural
Properties)

Research and Collaborative Projects for the Protection of
２ Implementing
Cultural Properties and Overseas Cultural Heritage
We undertake the following types of surveys and research to contribute to the formation of the framework of knowledge andtechniques required to facilitate the transmission of priceless cultural properties to future generations.

（１）Research Leading to New Ideas
We are engaged in undertaking fundamental and systematic research relating to cultural properties (including collaborative
research and research-related exchange with other organizations, both in Japan and overseas) and also surveys and researchthat contribute to the preservation and effective utilization of cultural properties. The results achieved through these surveys andresearch have led to an increase in the amount of basic data available, facilitated the accumulation of academic knowledge, andprovided the basic information needed to support the designation of cultural properties, while also contributing, at individual andcollective levels, to the planning and establishment of cultural property preservation measures by national and local government
bodies, as well as the evaluation of cultural properties.

Survey of a mother-of-pearl fragment, purportedly
from the Shumidan (Buddhist altar) of Byōdō-in
Temple(Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties)

Survey of the townscape of Ogimachi in Sado City (Niigata
Prefecture)(Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties)（２）B asic Research for the Improvement of Research and Development Utilizing
Science and Technology
We undertake the following types of research and development to support the development of research on the value and preservation of cultural properties:① We contribute to the enhancement of the accuracy and effectiveness of cultural property survey methods through the promotion of
R&D work such as the application of science and technology. We
also contribute towards the clarification of the background (cultural,
historical, and natural environment) against which cultural properties
came into being, and the process of change in this background overtime.
② As a core research center for research relating to cultural property
preservation science and restoration techniques, restoration materials, and production techniques, we work to develop new culturalproperty research techniques that utilize the latest scientific andtechnological developments. We also promote cutting-edge surveys
and research with the aim of fostering joint research and researchrelated exchange with other institutions both in Japan and overseas.

8

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

Examination of painting materials using a hyperspectral

camera (Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties)

（３）International Collaboration for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage
We promote the acquisition and analysis of information from abroad regarding cultural heritage, and also promote cooperative programs for its
protection. Additionally, we implement human resource development andtechnology transfer programs for the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage. All of the aforementioned endeavors—which are pursued
while utilizing the knowledge, technology, and experience that Japan has
accumulated for the protection of cultural heritage—are contributions ofinternational importance. Moreover, through cooperation with researchersand other specialists in the Asia-Pacific region, we conduct research andpromote international collaboration for the protection of intangible cultural
heritage endangered by natural disasters and other threats. Through suchactivities for the protection of humanity’s shared assets, we contribute tocultural exchange and mutual understanding between countries.

Workshop on “Research on ICH’s Contribution to SDGs”
project (Bangladesh)(IRCI)（４）Collecting and Collating Information Relating to Cultural Properties, andPublicizing and Utilizing the Results of Surveys and Research
We are working to promote the digitalization of information relating to cultural properties and expand related specialist archives, as well as organizing public lectures and international symposia, and expanding the content
included on the websites of the individual facilities that make up the NICH,
with the aim of furthering the collection, collation and preservation of information relating to cultural properties, and of ensuring that such outcomes
are widely publicized and disseminated. We are also working to expand thedisplays of survey and research results held at the Nara Palace Site Museum, Exhibition Room of Fujiwara Imperial Site, and Asuka Historical Museumof the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, so as to provide the general public with a more in-depth understanding of related areas.

The 55th Public Lecture (Tokyo National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties)（５）P rovision of Training for, and Collaboration with, Local Government Authorities
in Relation to Cultural Properties
We make effective use of results obtained from past surveys and research
to contribute to the enhancement of knowledge and techniques throughthe implementation of training tailored to the needs of local government
authorities. We also cultivate the core human resource that willl play key
roles in the preservation of Japan’s cultural properties in the future, throughcollaborative education projects in conjunction with university graduate
schools. After the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, we played a central role in activities conducted to rescue cultural properties at the requestof the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Making effective use of this experience,
we are also undertaking research projects and capacity building aimed at
putting in place a nationwide system for coordination and collaboration soas to develop a network for safeguarding and rescuing cultural properties inthe event of future large-scale disasters such as major earthquakes.

The Archaeological Site Research and Methodology
course (Nara National Research Institute for Cultural

Properties)（６）Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Initiatives
The type of disaster risks varies, from the potential mega-earthquakes,
to flood-causing torrential downpours that have become almost annual
over recent years. We strive to protect and rescue cultural heritage fromdiverse yet ever-repeating disasters, both by constructing systems for
coordination and collaboration in advance, and by providing the necessary
support from specialist insight under the emergency. Our projects include
formulation of guidelines for rescue activities and disaster risk management, technological development for disaster-resilient display methods
and storage environment for museums, and educational efforts to develop
local specialists on cultural heritage disaster-risk management.
An on-the-ground survey of fire damage on the cypressbark roof of Sudōtennō-sha Shrine (Nara City, Nara
Prefecture) (Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management
Center)

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

9

Ⅲ Activities of Each Institution
TOKYO NATIONAL MUSEUM
As Japan’s foremost museum in the humanities field, Tokyo National Museum collects, preserves, manages, and displays cultural properties from across Japan and other Asian regions, while also conducting research and providing educational programs.

FUJIWARA Makoto
Executive Director
Tokyo National Museum

Tokyo National Museum (TNM) is the oldest museum in Japan. Our history traces back to 1872 (Meiji 5)
and the staging of an exhibition under the auspices of the Ministry of Education at the Taiseiden Hall of
Yushima Seido, a former Confucian temple in Tokyo, an event that marked the inauguration of the
Ministry of Education Museum, TNM’s predecessor.
Our collection comprises around 120,000 tangible cultural properties from Japan and other Asian
regions, including numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. It is our mission toconvey the charms of these cultural properties to a global audience while also ensuring they are passed
down safely to future generations.
2022 (Reiwa 4) marks the 150th anniversary of TNM’s founding. Falling amid a time of global
turbulence, this anniversary presents a great opportunity to look back at the many changes the Museum
has undergone since its inception and the many roles it has played since becoming the “people’s
museum” after WWII.
From here on, we will remain true to our raison d'être and mission as a museum by steadfastly
undertaking research, collection, preservation and restoration projects. We will also stage exhibits,
provide educational programs and develop new projects that allow more people to experience the charmsof cultural properties and the fun of museums. In this way, we will endeavor to take new strides forward
as a bridge connecting the past, present and future.

■Exhibitions●Regular Exhibitions

The regular exhibitions comprise the core function of the museum’s exhibition activities, displaying works from the museum collection as well
as objects on loan to the museum. Exhibits are rotated periodically, with an approximate total of 400 rotations annually. The regular exhibition galleries are as follows:
HONKAN (Japanese Gallery): The 2nd floor provides an overview of the history of Japanese art in chronological order from the Jomon to the
Edo period. The exhibits on the 1st floor are categorized by genre and include sculptures, ceramics, and swords.
TOYOKAN (Asian Gallery): This building is dedicated to artworks and archeological artifacts from China, the Korean Peninsula, Southeast
Asia, Central Asia, India, Egypt, and other regions.
HEISEIKAN: The Japanese Archaeology Gallery located on the 1st floor displays objects, such as dogū and haniwa clay figurines as well as
bronze bells, dating from the Paleolithic through to the Edo period; the Thematic Exhibition Room, also on the 1st floor, is used for thematicand educational displays.
The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures: This building exhibits objects selected from over 300 cultural properties donated to the Imperial Family by
Horyuji Temple in Nara.
HYOKEIKAN: This building has been used for special exhibitions and special events in recent years.
Kuroda Memorial Hall: This building was built through a bequest from one of the most renowned painters of modern Japan, Kuroda Seiki, andis used to exhibit his works.
●Thematic Exhibitions

Thematic exhibitions focus on specific themes and are held as part of the Museum’s regular exhibitions. The following are examples of thosescheduled for fiscal year 2022 (the dates given are tentative):・Future National Treasures: Masterpieces of Painting and Calligraphy from the Museum Collection (April 12, 2022–March 26, 2023)
・Tokyo National Museum’s Glassware Collection: Domestic and Imported Works from the 19th Century (July 12–September 4, 2022)
・Copies in the Tokyo National Museum Collection: Exhibitions and Research in the Museum’s Early Period (September 6–October 30, 2022)
・Future National Treasures: Masterpieces of Sculpture, Decorative Art, and Archaeology from the Museum Collection (September 6–
December 25, 2022)
・Masterpieces of Chinese Art: Paintings and Calligraphy of the Song Dynasty and their Subsequent Reception and Development (tentative)(September 21–November 13, 2022)
・Noh Masks by Acclaimed Carvers of the Early Modern Period (January 2–February 26, 2023)

New Year's Celebration at Tokyo National
Museum: The Year of the Tiger and TNM's
150th Anniversary (January 2–30, 2022)10

National Treasure: Frolicking Animals (April 13–
June 20, 2021) *This exhibition was
temporarily suspended from April 25 to May 31

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

four seasons | nogizaka46 (September 4–

November 28, 2021)

●Special Exhibitions
Special exhibitions are held to share the results of our research and to meet visitor interest. The following are examples of special
exhibitions scheduled for the fiscal year 2022:※The exhibition dates are subject to change.
・The Saint Kūya and Rokuharamitsuji Temple (March 1–May 8, 2022)
・Special Exhibition Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Okinawa's Reversion to Japan RYUKYU (May 3–June 26, 2022)
・150th Anniversary Special Exhibition Tokyo National Museum: Its History and National Treasures (October 18–December 11, 2022)■Acquisition, Conservation, and Restoration

The Museum seeks to create a comprehensive display of Asian cultural properties with a focus on
Japan through the acquisition of works of art by purchase, donation, and loan. We also carry out avariety of collection management measures to allow deteriorated objects to be safely exhibited in
the future. We ensure that deteriorated cultural properties can still be exhibited safely in future byenhancing gallery and storage environments, improving display and transportation methods, andconducting condition assessments. We conducted around 50 full restorations and around 200
emergency treatments in fiscal year 2021.

■Education

To provide a better museum experience for visitors, we offer opportunities for as many people aspossible to get to know the museum, and we help them to develop a deeper understanding of Japanese and Asian culture. By collaborating with schools and developing volunteer activities, we strive
to establish a pioneering model for engaging museum projects while promoting effective educational
programs that reflect our role as a leading museum in Japan.
○Providing learning opportunities
Gallery talks, seminars, lecture series, workshops, and “behind the scenes” tours introducing theMuseum’s preservation and restoration work, and other exhibition-related events.
○Educational and thematic exhibits called “Family Galleries” and "Japanese Culture Plaza".
○Collaboration with schools
School programs (art appreciation programs, work experience programs, and programs for visually
impaired students) and teacher training○Partnerships with universities
Campus Members System and internship programs for graduate students○Volunteer activities
Assistance for educational activities, visitor information, and guided tours○Anniversary Projects
TNM Kids Day! Once Every Month!; the children’s drawing activity ‘Let’s Make a Commemorative
Ticket!’; the Junior Curators Program for students; the theatrical guided tour ‘Welcome to the TNM
Theater! – TNM Birthday Edition’; and the development of tactile boards and sensory maps
※Some programs have been moved online.
※These activities may be changed or cancelled due to COVID-19.

A monthly lecture

Family Gallery “More Japanese Culture
Unlocked: Armor, Kimonos, Lacquerware,and Woodblock Printing”■Research

We conduct research on cultural properties originating in Asia, with a focus on Japan. Research outcomes are reflected in the museum’s collection, and in our collection and exhibition activities. Research is partially supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research and other grants for culturalactivities. Research conducted in fiscal year 2022 includes the following:・Special research projects on the treasures of Horyuji Temple donated to the Imperial Household in
1878, including calligraphy, decorative arts, sculpture, paintings, and artifacts
・Research on cultural properties at temples and shrines in the Kanto region
・Research on eastern peoples
・Joint research on the composition of silk and dyed textile used in arts and crafts
・Research related to “Buddhist Painting of the Edo Period: Tradition and Innovation” and other Thematic
Exhibitions

Brief History

1872: Opened as the Museum of the Ministry of Education, on theoccasion of Japan’s first public exposition held by the ministry
in the Yushima Seido, Tokyo.
1875: Transferred to the Ministry of the Interior. The museum hadeight exhibition categories at this time: natural products,
agriculture & forestation, industrial technology, art, history,
education, religion, and army and navy.
1882: M oved to the present location, a site formerly occupied by theheadquarters of Kan’eiji Temple.
1889: Reorganized as the Imperial Museum under the supervision of
the Imperial Household Agency.
1900: R
 enamed the Tokyo Imperial Household Museum.
1909: H yokeikan opened.
1923: F ormer Honkan building destroyed in the Great Kanto
Earthquake.
1925: N atural history collections transferred to the Tokyo Museum of
the Ministry of Education (present-day National Museum of
Nature and Science) and other institutions.
1938: Present Honkan building opened.
1947: T ransferred to the Ministry of Education and renamed the
National Museum.
1952: R
 enamed the Tokyo National Museum.
1964: T he Gallery of Horyuji Treasures (inaugural building) opened.
1968: A ffiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Toyokan opened.
1984: T he Shiryokan (the Research and Information Center) opened.
1999: The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures (current building) and Heiseikan
opened.
2001: Became the Independent Administrative Institution National
Museums, Tokyo National Museum.
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage as the Tokyo National
Museum.

A survey of Buddhist paintings, part ofa special research project on paintings

Facilities （m2）Land Area

120,270（including the Kuroda Memorial Hall and the Yanase Villa）

Buildings

Building Area

Exhibition Buildings

23,651Gross Floor Area

Exhibition Area Total
Repository Area Total

78,471
18,567
11,654

HonkanBuilding Area
Exhibition Area

6,602
6,941

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

22,416
3,829

Toyokan

Building Area
Exhibition Area

2,892
4,250

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

12,531
1,379

Heiseikan

Building Area
Exhibition Area

5,542
4,471

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

19,406
2,446

The Gallery of Horyuji
Treasures

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,935
1,462

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

4,031
291

Hyokeikan

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,130
1,179

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

2,077
0

Kuroda Memorial Hall

Building Area
Exhibition Area

724
264

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

1,996
25

OthersBuilding Area

4,826
		

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

16,014
3,684

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

11

KYOTO NATIONAL MUSEUM
The Kyoto National Museum collects, preserves, manages, and exhibits cultural properties, while also conducting research and educational activities. It focuses on culturalproperties from the Heian period to the Edo period, a time when Kyoto was the capitalof Japan.
Kyoto prospered as Japan’s capital and cultural center for over a thousand years, from the relocationof the capital at the end of the 8th century to the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century.
Kyoto National Museum was established in 1897 (Meiji 30) in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto,
an area steeped in the city's history and traditions. Since then, while functioning as a core institution
for the preservation and transmission of Kyoto’s tangible cultural properties, the museum has also
worked to disseminate the value and appeal of Japan’s traditional culture to a wide audience, bothnationally and internationally.
Even during these difficult times, we have endeavored to maintain a high level of activities while
deepening our response to globalization and the spread of information technology in a manner thattakes new lifestyles and SDGs into consideration. From here on, we will continue to improve ageing
facilities as we build a museum that everyone can appreciate and enjoy as a center for schooling andlifetime learning, a nexus of exploration and creativity, a place of leisure, and a hub of tourism.

MATSUMOTO Nobuyuki
Executive Director
Kyoto National Museum■Exhibitions●Collection Galleries
The Collection Galleries in the Heisei Chishinkan Wing, which opened in September 2014, include thematic galleries for ceramics, archeological relics, paintings, calligraphy, decorative and applied arts,and sculpture. The galleries showcase some of the finest pieces from the ｍuseum’s 14,000 items(including items on long-term loan), and enable visitors to experience some of the most outstanding
examples of Kyoto’s unique cultural heritage. The items on display are changed periodically, so visitors
can expect to see different items on subsequent visits.
●Exhibitions※The exhibition dates are subject to change.
Heisei Chishinkanwing Wing
・Special Exhibition Commemorating the 1200th Anniversary of Saichō's Death Buddhist Art of theTendai School (April 12–May 22, 2022)
・Special Exhibition Kanshin-ji and Kongō-ji, Two Temples of Kawachinagano: Esoteric Buddhist Art and the Legacy of the Southern Court (July 30–
September 11, 2022)
・Special Exhibition Chanoyu: Tea in the Cultural Life of Kyoto (October 8–December 4, 2022)
・850th Anniversary Special Exhibition Shinran: The Life and Legacy of the Founder of Shin Buddhism (March 25–May 21, 2023)※Please note that due to the current closure of Meiji Kotokan (Main Hall), the Heisei Chishinkan Wing is being used alternately for both Special
Exhibitions and Collection Exhibitions.

Feature Exhibition
Olympia Meets Japanese Art (June 5–July 4,
2021)

Special Exhibition
National Treasures of Kyoto: Preserving
the Cultural Heritage of Japan's Ancient
Capital (July 24–September 12, 2021)

Special Exhibition
Masterpieces from the Hatakeyama
Memorial Museum of Fine Art: Noh, Chanoyu,
and Rinpa (October 9–December 5, 2021)■Collection, Preservation, and Restoration of Cultural Properties
Since the museum’s establishment, numerous treasures from historical temples and shrines have been
entrusted to the Kyoto National Museum. Meanwhile, the number of cultural properties in the collection
has increased yearly through purchases and donations, with a focus on art or archaeological items related to Kyoto culture. These cultural properties must be restored and preserved appropriately so that they
may be enjoyed and appreciated by future generations. The Conservation Center for Cultural Properties,
the first comprehensive conservation facility for cultural properties in Japan, was established in 1980
to meet that need.

12

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

Conservation work underway in the Conservation
Center for Cultural Properties

■Educational Activities
We undertake a variety of activities via our exhibitions, website, and outreach to schools, in order to help people learn
more about the museum’s exhibitions and collections, and to
stimulate interest and concern for cultural properties.
○Activities held to enhance understanding of exhibition contents and exhibits
・The museum holds various lectures and seminars, including
the Saturday Lectures and Commemorative Lectures. It
also produces multilingual educational guides, worksheets
Summer Lectures
Feature Exhibition
and the “Museum Dictionary,” for example, and it provides(July 2 and 3, 2021)
Hear Me Roar: Celebrating the Year ofaudio guides for young people.
the Tiger (January 2–February 13, 2022)○Activities held to stimulate interest in cultural properties
・T he museum organizes summer lectures, symposia andother lecture events. It also stages special introductory exhibits and it arranges visits to elementary schools and junior high schools in Kyoto by “Cultural Property Sommeliers,” making use of high-resolution
digital reproductions of important works of art (Cultural Properties School Outreach Classes). Furthermore, it develops and distributes websites, videos and other online content.
○The museum works closely with educational institutions, organizing collaborative events.
・Collaborations between the museum and the university sector include: the Campus Members System; lectures on historical, cultural and sociological
topics by our curators at the Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies; the training of volunteers called "Kyohaku Navigators" and of“Cultural Property Sommeliers”; support for teaching through the use of replicas; the holding of art appreciation events; and the holding of workshops
for educators.
○Support for volunteer activities
・Implementation of the “Cultural Property Sommeliers” systems, and training of “Cultural Property Sommeliers” volunteers.
※These activities may be changed or cancelled due to COVID-19.

■Research
Since 1979, the museum has been implementing an ongoing, comprehensive survey of cultural
assets owned by old temples and shrines in the Kinki region of Japan, centered on Kyoto. The resultsof these activities are published in our “Kyoto National Museum Shrine and Temple Inventory
Reports” The museum also continues to undertake research on its collections; the research results
are reflected in the museum’s exhibitions and published in the Kyoto National Museum Bulletin.

Research underway at shrines and temples■Other Activities
A variety of special events are held to encourage more people to visit the Museum.
○Rakugo at the Museum
Kyoto National Museum has launched the “Rakugo at the Museum” project, whereby performancesof Rakugo (traditional comic storytelling, which originated in Kyoto and is an important aspect ofJapanese traditional culture) are held on a regular basis.

“Rakugo at the Museum” performance

Brief History

Facilities

1889: E stablished as the Imperial Museum of Kyoto under thesupervision of the Imperial Household Agency Ｍinistry
1897: F irst exhibition held (May 1)
1900: R
 enamed as the Imperial Household Museum of Kyoto
1924: D onated to Kyoto City; renamed as the Imperial Gift Museumof Kyoto
1952: T ransferred to the national government; renamed as the
Kyoto National Museum
1966: Establishment of the New Exhibition Hall
1968: Affiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs
1969: T he Main Hall, Main Gate, ticket booth and fences are designated as an Important Cultural Property of the former Imperial
Museum of Kyoto
1973: T he Saturday lecture series starts
1980: C onservation Center for Cultural Properties is established
1997: A special ceremony is held in October to mark the 100th anniversary of the Museum’s founding
2001: T he South Gate renovated as part of the 100th Year
Anniversary Hall construction project（tentative name）
2001: Transformed into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Museum, Kyoto National Museum
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, as Kyoto National
Museum2009: R econstruction begins on the former exhibition hall
2013: C onstruction of Heisei Chishinkan Wing（new exhibition hall）
is completed in August
2014: H eisei Chishinkan Wing opens in September
2017: A special ceremony is held in May to mark the 120th
anniversary of the Museum’s founding

Land Area

2

（m ）
				

Buildings

Building Area

Exhibition Buildings

13,077Gross Floor Area

Exhibition Area Total
Repository Area Total

53,18230,872
5,657
4,889

Special Exhibition Hall

Building Area
Exhibition Area

2,896
2,070

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

3,015
803

Heisei Chishinkan Wing

Building Area
Exhibition Area

5,568
3,587

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

17,9972,710

Former Administration
Building
Building Area

606

Gross Floor Area

1,988

Materials Building

Building Area

414

Gross Floor Area

1,125

Conservation Center for
Cultural Properties
Building Area

821

Gross Floor Area

2,786Technical Materials
CenterBuilding Area

101

Gross Floor Area

304

East Repository

Building Area
811
			

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

1,471
880

North Repository

Building Area
310
			

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

682
496

OthersBuilding Area

Gross Floor Area

1,504

1,550

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

13

NARA NATIONAL MUSEUM
The Nara National Museum collects, preserves, manages and displays cultural properties,
while also conducting research and providing educational programming. Its focus is on
Buddhist art and the cultural properties of Nara.
Since its opening in 1895, with the support of temples and shrines of the Nararegion, the Nara National Museum has been engaged in collecting, preserving, andconducting research and offering educational programs on cultural properties with a
special focus on Buddhist art. Through these activities, the museum has introduced
to the public the high artistic value and historical background of Japanese
Buddhist culture, unique for its syncreticism with indigenous beliefs. Keeping in
mind that various cultural properties are tied together in an organic whole with thehistorical and cultural landscape of Nara, we aim to reach a wide range of people
as a conveyor of Nara’s culture. To this end, we strive to promote the museum’s
international activities and a more effective use of information technology.

INOUE Yoichi
Executive Director
Nara National Museum■Exhibitions●Buddhist Art Exhibitions
In addition to holding special exhibitions and feature exhibitions, the museum also displays renowned masterworks of Buddhist art including many designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The
Nara Buddist Sculpture Hall features ”Masterpieces of Buddhist Sculpture”, exceptional Buddist statues representative of the history of Japanese sculpture from the Asuka to the Kamakura period, dating from around theseventh century to the mid-fourteenth century. The Ritual Bronzes Gallery connected by a corridor features fineworks of Chinese ancient bronzes. The West Wing houses ”Masterpieces of Buddhist Art”, which introduces theessence of Japanese Buddhist art through selected items of painting, decorative art, calligraphy and artifacts.
In addition, thematic exhibitions from the permanent collection are occasionally held for themes that lie outside
a specific genre.

●Feature Exhibitions※The exhibition dates are subject to change.
Feature exhibitions are medium-scale exhibitions organized to explore a specific theme.
・Treasures of Tōdaiji’s Omizutori Ritual (February 4–March 19, 2023)●Special Exhibitions※The exhibition dates are subject to change.
・Temple of Great Peace
The world of Daianji and Buddhist Art in Ancient Nara (April 23–June 19, 2022)
・Celebrating the Conservation of the Jōkyō-Era Taima Mandara | Special Exhibition
Chūjō-hime and the Taima Mandara: Weaving Tales of Faith (July 16–August 28, 2022)
・The 74th Annual Exhibition of Shōsō-in Treasures (Fall 2022*)*Dates TBD

The 1400th Memorial for Prince Shōtoku
HŌRYŪJI Prince Shōtoku and Treasures of
Early Buddhist Faith in Japan (April 27–June 20,

Buddhist Art Paradise: Jewels of the Nara
National Museum (July 17–September 12, 2021)

2021)■The Collection, Preservation, and Restoration of Cultural Properties
We strive to collect tangible cultural properties, which are profoundly valuable assets for the people of Japan, through purchase, donation and loan. We
work to maintain an ideal environment for our collections with meticulous care, by constantly controlling the temperature and humidity in our exhibitionand storage areas.
Most Japanese cultural properties are made of extremely fragile materials, such as paper and wood. Therefore, the museum takes proactive steps
to preserve these objects for future generations. For this reason, in 2002, we established the Conservation Center for Cultural Properties to handle
restoration projects by conservation specialists.

14

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

■Educational Programs
We promote a variety of educational programs to impart upon audiences an understandingof the importance of cultural properties.
①P
 rograms for students
We offer world heritage classes (mainly for elementary school students), live online
programs for schools, and object explanations for children.
②L ectures and seminars
e.g.: Public lectures, Sunday Talks, Seasonal lecture series, the Shōsō-in Academic
Symposium, and international symposia③C
 ooperation with universities and colleges
e.g.: Campus Members System, internship programs, and joint lectures with Nara Women’s University and Kobe University④ Promotion of volunteer activities※These activities may be changed or cancelled due to COVID-19.

An explanatory talk offered to children in Nara
Buddhist Sculpture Hall

■Research and Survey Activities
We consider research into cultural properties to be the most important activity supporting
the foundations of the Nara National Museum as a research institution. Research findings
play a part in our exhibition activities and are also reflected in the museum's masterpiece
exhibitions and special exhibitions. Reference materials collected through research areavailable to the public at the Buddhist Art Library. In fiscal year 2021, the Nara National
Museum will conduct the following thematic research:① Research on collection items, items on loan to the museum, and related items② Research on Buddhist paintings alongside the creation of reproductions③ Fundamental research on ancient and medieval Buddhist scriptures and sutra-copying④C omprehensive survey of Buddhist arts and crafts and ancient arts and crafts⑤ Researching objects excavated from temples⑥ Research on the art of sculpture in ancient and medieval Nara
⑦ Research on Buddhist art using optical technologies, conducted in collaboration with
the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties⑧ Research to accompany special exhibitions, etc.
⑨ Research to contribute to educational programs in history and traditional culture⑩R esearch into the effects on cultural properties of storage area environments, exhibition spaces and display cases⑪Research on collections from the perspective of cultural asset restoration⑫ Research on collections from the perspective of conservation science

Sunday Talk

C o ll a b o r a t i o n w i t h N a r a U n i v e r s i t y o f
Education "Sumo matches between paper
figures of Narahaku treasures"

Research in progress

Brief History

1889: Established as the Imperial Museum of Nara under
the supervision of the Imperial Household Ministry
1895: First exhibition held (April 29)
1900: Renamed as the Imperial Household Museum of Nara
1914: Establishment of the Shōsō-in Department
1947: Supervision transferred to the Ministry of Education
1950: Affiliated with the National Commission for the Protection of Cultural Properties
1952: Renamed as the Nara National Museum
1968: Affiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs
1973: Opening of the West Wing
1980: Establishment of the Buddhist Art Library
1995: Celebration of the museum’s centennial anniversary
1998: Opening of the East Wing
2001: Becomes the Independent Administrative Institution
National Museum, Nara National Museum
2002: Opening of the Conservation Center for Cultural Properties; main building’s repository reopened as the
Ritual Bronzes Gallery
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, as the
Nara National Museum
2010: T he main building renamed as the Nara Buddhist
Sculpture Hall
2016: Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall reopened after restoration (April 29)

Facilities

（m2）

Land Area				

Buildings

Building Area

Exhibition Buildings

6,786

			
			

19,133

Exhibition Area Total 4,079
Repository Area Total 1,806

Nara Buddhist Sculpture
Hall

Building Area
Exhibition Area

Ritual Bronzes Gallery

Building Area
Exhibition Area

East Wing

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,825
875

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

6,389
1,642

West Wing

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,649 Gross Floor Area
1,473		

5,396

Buddhist Art Library

Building Area

735

Gross Floor Area

735

Conservation Center for
Cultural Properties

Building Area

319

Gross Floor Area

1,036

		
			

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

2,152
164

Gross Floor Area

1,249

Lower Level
Passageway
OthersBuilding Area

1,512
1,261

Gross Floor Area

78,760Gross Floor Area

1,512

341 Gross Floor Area
470		

664

405

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

15

KYUSHU NATIONAL MUSEUM
Kyushu National Museum engages in the collection, preservation, exhibition, and research of cultural properties, as well as educational outreach, with a focus on Japan’s
history of cultural exchange with Asia.
Our museum opened its doors on 16 October 2005 and focuses on mapping the formation ofJapanese culture within the context of Asia’s history. To date, our museum has welcomed morethan 17.5 million visitors into its halls, an indication of the enthusiastic support we enjoy frompeople near and far.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken the opportunity to explore new ways of serving
the people around us, such as through developing new online programs that allow our audience
to enjoy content from our museum from the safety of their homes. Now, more so than ever, we
remain firmly committed to our mission of communicating the cultural heritage of our ancestors
to our visitors in a way that is more engaging than the classroom, and more illuminating than atextbook.

SHIMATANI Hiroyuki
Executive Director
Kyushu National Museum(President, NICH)■Exhibitions●Cultural Exchange Exhibition

Aside from constantly rotating exhibits, our permanent Cultural Exchange Exhibition also plays host to Feature Exhibitions and special displays centered on specific themes that provide visitors with fresh content and perspectives withevery visit, as well as interactive displays that allow visitors to experience history in a multisensory way.

●Feature Exhibitions and Special Displays 2022–23

・It’s a “Smol” World: Archaeology at Its Cutest (19 Apr–24 Jul 2022)
・Vessels from the Imperial Court: Imari Porcelains from the Yamashina Family Collection [working title] (27 Sep–20
Nov 2022)
・Spotlight on Tanegashima [working title] (13 Dec 2022–12 Feb 2023)
・Hatsune Maki-e Lacquer Trousseau: National Treasure from the Tokugawa Art Museum (1–29 Jan 2023)

Feature Exhibition
Ming Expression in Edo Temples
17 Jul–10 Oct 2021

●Special Exhibitions 2022–23
Our Special Exhibitions are designed to be engaging and informative for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.
・Hokusai (16 Apr–12 Jun 2022)
・Ryukyu (16 Jul–4 Sep 2022)
・Pompeii (12 Oct–4 Dec 2022)
・Gaya [working title] (24 Jan–19 Mar 2023)■Acquiring, Storing, and Conserving our Collection●Acquisitions

Feature Exhibition
TEWAZA

Recreating Ryukyuan Handicraft Culture

19 Oct–12 Dec 2021

In line with our mission, Kyushu National Museum constantly seeks to enrich our collection of items relevant to thehistory of cultural exchange between Japan and mainland Asia. We also work with temples, shrines, and private
collectors who may wish to donate or store their collections with us, and who generously permit us to use theseobjects to further enhance our exhibitions.

●Storage

Our museum’s purpose-built storage rooms are located in the center of the building, ensuring our collection is
insulated by the double-walled structure of the rooms, and also shielded from direct contact with the elements. Ourbuilding also uses a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that maintains constant temperatureand humidity levels within the storage area. Further, the ceilings and walls of the storage area are made fromJapanese cedar sourced locally from Kyushu, while the floors are made of Japanese beech from Hokkaido. Thesetypes of wood function as moisture buffers, providing an additional, non-mechanical method of regulating humidity.
In addition, our museum makes use of three types of seismic isolators in order to stabilize the building in theevent of earthquakes, reducing the amount of seismic energy transferred into the building and thus keeping ourcollection safe.

●Conservation

Special Exhibition
In the Embrace of the Mountains
and Seas
Nature in the Japanese Imagination

9 Oct–5 Dec 2021

16

Our museum has a dedicated conservation studio that is divided into six rooms: a paper-making room, and rooms forconserving calligraphy and ancient documents, paintings, sculpture and large-sized artifacts, archaeological relics,
and lacquerware. Here, experienced conservation staff work alongside specialists in the relevant fields of research todetermine the best course of action for conserving each and every artifact. We are also equipped with state-of-the-art
instruments, including an X-ray CT machine and an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, which help us better analyze theobjects we are to conserve.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

■Educational Outreach and Exchange●Educational Outreach① Ajippa (Interactive Exhibition Gallery)A unique exhibition gallery where visitors of all ages can get up close and personal with Asian andEuropean cultures with which Japan has had historical interactions. Ajippa also develops and offers
hands-on activity kits and programs for visitors to experience the museum in a more interactive
setting. We also work with other educational institutions to develop educational programs.
② Exhibition-related activities
Silk-making workshop
・Programs to help visitors understand exhibits
・YouTube videos introducing exhibits
・Kyuhaku at Home online series of videos and activities for do-it-yourself workshops
・Development of in-house workshops
・Production of guidebooks③ Kyupack—a series of supplementary tools for classroom-based teaching based on our museum collection④ Kyuhaku Caravan—a mobile version of Ajippa that brings our museum to schools⑤ Campus Members program—strengthening our ties with educational institutions, such as universities⑥ Kyuhaku Picture Books—illustrated books used in educational programs⑦ Volunteer activities
Our local volunteers are involved in various aspects of our museum’s operations, from exhibitions to Backyard Tours, environmental management,
and workshops.

●Local and International Exchange*① Engaging the community by planning outreach activities with local businesses and organizations, as well as providing rental facilities.
② Partners all over Asia
・South Korea: Buyeo National Museum, Gongju National Museum, Korea National University of Cultural Heritage
・People’s Republic of China: Nanjing Museum, Inner Mongolia Museum, Chengdu Museum, Shenyang Palace Museum, Shanghai Museum
・Southeast Asia: National Museum of Vietnamese History, Thai Ministry of Culture Fine Arts Department③ International symposiums and lectures*Exchange activities have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

■Research
In addition to conducting research on artifacts to reveal their role in the cultural exchange between
Japan and mainland Asia, we also conduct scientific analysis on cultural properties for conservation
and restoration purposes. The results of these studies are collected, stored and actively utilized in our
exhibitions. Such research is conducted with financial support, such as from the Grants-in-Aid for Scientific
Research provided by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. Related endeavors include, but are
not limited to:・Structural analysis of artifacts using our X-ray CT scanner and other equipment
・Utilization of research in educational outreach programs and efforts, such as explanation panels for
exhibitions, information leaflets, and workshops
・Comparison of conservation and restoration practices in museums in Japan and other countries aroundthe world・A ssessment of the sustainability of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems as a method ofalleviating threats posed by pests to our collection

Artifact analysis using our X-ray CT
scanner■Publications
Our museum regularly releases a number of publications aimed at promoting our exhibitions and latest research findings.
① Kyushu National Museum Bulletin Tōfū Seisei (published annually)
・A bulletin summarizing the academic endeavors and achievements of our staff② Kyushu National Museum Conservation and Restoration Reports (published annually)③ Asiage Quarterly (published quarterly)
・A magazine introducing exhibitions and other exciting events happening in our museum④ Kyuhaku Picture Books
・Illustrated books published by our museum to make history and culture more accessible and fun for children

Brief History

1994: C reation of the Committee to Investigate the Establishment of a New
Concept-Based Museum (“the Committee”) by the Agency for Cultural Affairs (ACA)
1996: S election of Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture as a potential location for
the new museum tentatively named “Kyushu National Museum”
1997: T he Committee outlines basic plans for Kyushu National Museum
1999: T he Committee finalizes basic plans for Kyushu National Museum
2000: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture, and the Kyushu National Museum Promotion
Foundation (“the Foundation”) finalize the basic architectural plans for themuseumT he Experts Committee for the Establishment of Kyushu National Museum, formed by the ACA and Fukuoka Prefecture, draws up concept plans
for the museum’s permanent exhibition
2001: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture, and the Foundation finalize the concept plansfor basic exhibition designT he IAI National Museums establishes the Kyushu National Museum Project Office
2002: A CA and Fukuoka Prefecture launch a three-year-long Construction Workphase
2003: T he IAI National Museums and Fukuoka Prefecture begin a two-year-long
Exhibition Work phase
2004: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture, and the Foundation complete construction of
the museum buildingA CA, IAI National Museums and Fukuoka Prefecture officially announce
the museum’s finalized name, “Kyushu National Museum”

2005: C ompletion of the Exhibition Work phase
IAI National Museums establishes Kyushu National MuseumT he museum opens to the public on 15 October
2007: K yushu National Museum becomes part of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage (NICH)
2008: K yushu National Museum hosts the China-Japan-South Korea trilateralsummit2012: C umulative visitorship reaches 10 million
2015: K yushu National Museum celebrates its 10th anniversary

Facilities Overview（m2）

Land area

159,844*

Building		Exhibition andStorage Areas

NICH

9,300

Fukuoka Prefecture

NICH

3,844

Fukuoka Prefecture

NICH

2,744

Building area 14,623*
Total floor area 30,675
5,780
Joint 15,595

Exhibition area 5,444
1,375
Joint
225
Storage area 4,518
Fukuoka Prefecture 1,335
Joint
439

*The land and building areas are jointly owned by NICH and Fukuoka Prefecture.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

17

TOKYO NATIONAL RESEARCHINSTITUTE FOR CULTURAL PROPERTIESSAITO Takamasa
Director General
Tokyo National
Reseach Institute forCultural Properties(Director, NICH)The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties supports the work of the government in
the administration of cultural properties by conducting various research, from basic and systematic
to practical and advanced, into all kinds of cultural properties, both tangible and intangible. The
Institute actively disseminates the results of this research both domestically and internationally. It
also provides guidance and advice to regional public bodies and other stakeholders concerning thepreservation of cultural properties. Furthermore, it pursues international cooperation projects related
to the conservation of cultural heritage in Asia and other regions of the world, including international
research initiatives, human resource development, and the transfer of conservation and restoration
technologies.
The Institute’s survey and research work currently focuses on several priority areas. Firstly, theInstitute is working to develop archives of research results and basic data, etc. accumulated by
the Institute over the years. Also, as a part of the Independent Administrative Institution, National
Institutes for Cultural Heritage, the Institute aims to play an integral role in the area of conservationand preservation through research on the conservation, preservation and publication of museum
materials. Furthermore, the Institute collects basic data, prepares visual records of intangible
cultural properties from across Japan, and make them available to the public, with a focus on
festivals, performing arts, and traditional techniques.
In addition, the Institute houses the secretariat of the Japan Consortium for International
Cooperation in Cultural Heritage, an organization that plays a central role in ensuring Japan makes acoordinated and effective contribution to the conservation of cultural heritage overseas.
We also serve as a regional hub for the East Japan region of the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk
Management Center in cooperation with its Head Office.

■Organization●Department of Art Research, Archives and Information Systems
The Department of Art Research, Archives and Information Systems collects, preserves, collates
and publicizes information relating to cultural properties, and also undertakes research on thedevelopment of effective methods for the transmission of information, with the aim of expanding thescope of cultural property archives. At the same time, the Department also engages in issues ofcontemporary relevance when it comes to the study of cultural properties and art history research,
for example. The Department also takes the results obtained in these activities as the basis for
managing the information systems and public relations activities of the Institute as a whole.

●Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage conducts basic research useful for the conservationand transmission of intangible cultural heritage, focusing in particular on Japan’s intangible cultural
heritage, which includes intangible cultural properties, intangible folk-cultural properties, andtechniques for preserving cultural properties. Audiovisual documentation, a significant method forthe conservation of intangible cultural heritage, is conducted and new methods of documentation
are also investigated.

Photographing Kuroda Seiki’s Lakeside“Minami Shinshu Shishimai (lion dance)
Festival” was held with COVID-19 prevention
measures in place●Center for Conservation Science
The Center for Conservation Science implements surveys of cultural property materials, construction
and techniques, and collects information that contributes to a more in-depth understanding of
cultural properties. In addition, it conducts research into the improvement of restoration materials
and techniques and into maintenance management methods. The Center also implements activities
relating to the adoption of new survey techniques. Moreover, the Center works closely with those
who are actually engaged in the conservation and restoration of cultural properties and their owners.

●Japan Center for International Cooperation in Conservation
The Japan Center for International Cooperation in Conservation renders assistance to various
countries in Asia and other regions of the world through the conservation and restoration projectsof cultural heritage including technical transfer and human resource development. It also promotes
the cooperative networks with other relevant institutions, domestic and international, by organizing
seminars and meetings. Collection and dissemination of information on cultural heritage and its
protection systems is another important task of the Center.
The Center is commissioned to manage the secretariat for the Japan Consortium forInternational Cooperation in Cultural Heritage.

18

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

On-the-ground examination of safe
preservation methods for Noriutsugi

Survey of ruin preservation conditions
using a drone (Cambodia)

■Seminars, Advice, and Guidance
The Institute conducts various training seminars and provides professional advice as well as technical guidance for the protection and utilizationof cultural properties. These include the International Course on Conservation of Japanese Paper, annual training for museum curators in charge ofconservation, advice on safeguarding intangible cultural properties, inspection assistance and advice on the museum environments, and investigation
and advice concerning the conservation of cultural properties.
"Training for Museum Curators in charge of Conservation" was reorganized in FY2021 in response to societal demands. The Basic Course andAdvanced Course were established in tandem with the National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties. The Advanced Course is run by the
Tokyo National Reseach Institute for Cultural Properties

International Course on Conservation ofJapanese Paper

Training for museum curators (advanced course)■Graduate School Education and Public Lectures
The Institute provides the results of its research to the public aiming at nurturing the next generation ofexperts and raising public interest. The Institute has collaborated with the Tokyo University of the Arts since1995 and is in charge of its Preventive Conservation Course. In the public lectures, the Department of Art
Research, Archives and Information Systems, and the Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage present theirresearch achievements every year.

■Dissemination of Research Information
A musical performance at the 15th
Public Lecture held by the Department
of Intangible Cultural Heritage: “Cultureof Using Trees – Using Cherry Trees,
Playing with Cherry Trees”

The Institute actively communicates and publicizes the results of its different
activities including research studies and international cooperation projects
through academic conferences, workshops and symposiums, for example. It also
updates its website regularly and it releases publications such as its ‘Annual
Report,’ its ‘Outline,’ and ‘Tobunken News.’

TOBUNKEN ResearchCollections（https://www.
tobunken.go.jp/archives/）■Publications
The Institute publishes periodicals such as The Bijutsu Kenkyu (The Journal of Art Studies), Yearbook of Japanese Art, Research and Reports on Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Science for Conservation. It also publicizes the research and study results through the publication of academic reports
and other means.

The Bijutsu Kenkyu(Journal of Art Studies)

Brief History

Yearbook of Japanese Art

1930: E stablished as the Institute of Art Research. an auxiliary organization of the Imperial
Academy of Fine Arts
1947: Affiliated with the National Museum
1950: A ffiliated with the National Commission for Protection of Cultural Properties
1952: R
 eorganized and renamed as Tokyo Research Institute of Cultural Properties
1954: R
 enamed as Tokyo National Research Institute of Cultural Properties
1968: A ffiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs
2000: C onstruction of new offices
2001: R estructured as the Independent Administrative Institution, National Research Institute for Cultural Properties Tokyo
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution, National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage, as Tokyo National Research Institute for Cutural Properties

Research and Reports on
Intangible Cultural Heritage

Science for Conservation

Facilities
Land Area
Building（m2）		
Building Area
Gross Floor Area

4,181

2,258
10,516

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

19

NARA NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
FOR CULTURAL PROPERTIESMOTONAKA Makoto
Director General
Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

As an institution engaged in the comprehensive research of tangible cultural properties, Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties researches cultural heritage (such as historicalmaterials and buildings) and conducts excavations, primarily at the Nara and Fujiwara Palace sites.
We exhibit and publish the results of this research, for example, and we also carry out research andexhibition programs with the aim of preserving Asuka culture. The Institute also strives to gather
and publicize data on archaeological sites through the ‘Comprehensive Database of ArchaeologicalSite Reports in Japan.’All these activities make a significant contribution to cultural heritage research, both nationally and internationally, and they have resulted in academic exchanges with China, South Korea andother countries across Asia. Furthermore, the Institute endeavors to develop new research technologies and methods to conserve, restore and maintain historical sites. We then provide guidance andtraining to local government specialists, for example, with these technologies and methods alsoutilized to protect historical sites across the world.
From here on, we hope to make further contributions
to the conservation and utilization of cultural properties by
pursuing interdisciplinary joint research in other fields too.

●Department of Planning and Coordination
The work of the Department of Planning and Coordination is assigned to five sections: the Planning and Coordination Section, the Data and Information Section, the International Cooperation
Section, the Exhibition Section, and the Photography Section. These sections plan and organize
professional training programs for cultural heritage workers at local government agencies andother organizations, organize data systems and enhance related databases, promote multilingualization in the sections, arrange international joint research projects and engage in international
cooperation on archaeological sites, exhibit research results at the Nara Palace Site Museum, andcarry out photography and the development of new technology.

Taking documentary photographs of the
Takamatsuzuka Tumulus Murals●Department of Cultural Heritage
The Department of Cultural Heritage consists of the Historical Document Section, the Architectural History Section, the Cultural Landscape Section and the Sites Management Research Section.
These sections conduct specialist and comprehensive research in the following areas respectively:
calligraphy, ancient books and historical documents; historical and traditional architecture; culturallandscapes; and the maintenance of archaeological sites and historical gardens. The research
activities conducted by each section contribute, in a practical manner, to governmental activities
concerning the protection of cultural properties, such as the designation, selection, registration,conservation and management of properties. The Department also collaborates with, and provides
advice for, local public entities in regard to cultural property administration.
●Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations

Regional exchanges related to theutilization of reconstructed buildings andarchaeological finds

The Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations is organized into five sections: Archaeology Section 1, Archaeology Section 2, Archaeology Section 3, the History Section, and the Architectural Features Section. These conduct interdisciplinary research based on excavational investigations of ancient palaces, temples and tombs located in the Heijo, Asuka and Fujiwara areas. The
research results are publicized through presentations, reports and exhibitions; this research also
contributes to the preservation and effective utilization of these archeological remains.
【Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations（Heijo）】
This Department is in charge of excavation and research at the Nara Palace Site (Special HistoricSite), where the imperial palace and government offices were located in the Nara period（710-784）.
Systematic research has been in progress since 1959 and over one-third of the 130 hectare site
has been excavated and surveyed so far. Finds at the sites of the palace and ancient temples (suchas architectural remains, wooden tablets used for writing, earthernware vessels and ceramic tiles)
have been verified with reference to historical records, with the Department's empirical research on
the Nara period winning widespread plaudits. The Department also provides the results of its research on the Nara Palace Site to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism（MLIT）
as basic data to support the maintenance of the national Nara Palace Site Historical Park.

A large-sized post-in-ground structure
discovered at The East Palace Garden Area

【Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations（Asuka and Fujiwara）】
The Department is in charge of excavation and research in the Asuka and Fujiwara area, Japan’s
political, economic and cultural center during the period between the 7th and early 8th centuries
when the Japanese state was coming into being. The sites in the Asuka district include palaces
and residences of elite clans, the sites of temples such as Asukadera (the oldest Buddhist temple
in Japan), a workshop that produced ancient coins and glass, a water clock, and various tombs. To
the north lies the site of the Fujiwara capital, the first large-scale planned city in Japan, covering avast area of more than five square kilometers. The interdisciplinary, empirical research being conducted based on the excavations of these sites in the Asuka and Fujiwara areas has made a major
contribution towards helping to clarify the historical record of the Asuka period.
Excavating the Imperial Audience Hall,
Fujiwara Palace Site

20

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

●Center for Archaeological Operations
The Center for Archaeological Operations consists of four research sections, which undertakepractical research relating to the survey, research and conservation of cultural heritage, as well as
providing training activities based on the Center’s research results, etc. The Conservation Science
Section undertakes a wide range of research, from fundamental research to practical research,
relating to surveys and analysis of the materials and structures of archaeological objects and thein-situ display of archaeological remains, etc. The Environmental Archaeology Section undertakes
research relating to the simulation of ancient environments and how animals and plants were usedin the past, etc., through surveys of and research on the remains of flora and fauna. The Dendrochronological Dating Section uses the methods of dendrochronology to advance applied researchon techniques for determining the age and origin of wooden cultural heritage items, and for determining how they were made, etc. The Archaeological Research Methodology Section develops surveying and measurement techniques, with a particular focus on the surveying and measurement ofarchaeological data, with the aim of furthering the development and effective utilization of methods
for researching cultural heritage and archaeology. This Section also undertakes disaster archaeology surveys and research.

On-the-ground training at historical ruins●Asuka Historical Museum
The Asuka Historical Museum, a facility that showcases the history and culture of the Asuka Period, was established in 1975 following a decision made by the Japanese Cabinet. Besides theMuseum’s regular exhibitions, which have thematic displays relating to palaces, stone structures,
tombs and temple sites, etc., visitors can also see the reconstructed portion of the eastern cloister of Yamada-dera Temple and objects excavated in and around this site. The Museum holds Special Exhibitions and Feature Exhibitions, with displays focused on the history and cultural heritageof the Asuka Period, displays that present the results of the wide-ranging research undertaken by
the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties in an easy-to-understand way, and displays featuring photographs of cultural heritage items, etc. The Museum also hosts lectures andparticipatory activities, etc.
●International Academic Exchange
The Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties contributes to international exchange
and collaboration through activities such as joint research, expert exchange, conservation
and restoration, support and training using its expertise and technology, and the Networking
Core Centers for International Cooperation on the Conservation of Cultural Heritage projectcommissioned by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Furthermore, it also participates in international
contribution projects related to cultural properties and conducted by other institutions such as
ACCU (Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO).
The Institute’s main projects include: (1) joint research with the Chinese Academy of Social
Sciences involving comparison of ancient capital sites; (2) joint research with the Henan Provincial
Institute of Cultural Heritage and Archaeology, China into artifacts, etc. excavated from kiln sites;(3) joint research with the Liaoning Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, China,
into artifacts belonging to the culture of the Former, Later, and Northern Yan; (4) joint researchwith the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, Korea, into the formation and processesof development of ancient Japanese and Korean culture , as well as exchanges of personnel
on excavation sites; (5) research, conservation, and restoration, undertaken with Cambodia’s
Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap (APSARA),at the Western Prasat Top site, as well as a human resource development project; (6) international
dissemination of Japanese archaeology through online resources and publications, in collaboration
with the Sainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures in the U.K. We are also
working on technology transfer and human resource development for the National Museum of the
Republic of Kazakhstan through a Networking Core Centers for International Cooperation on theConservation of Cultural Heritage project commissioned by the Agency for Cultural Affairs.

Permanent Exhibition Room No.1

Online training as part of the "Knowledge
Transfer on the Methodology and Practice ofInvestigation, Recording and Conservation ofArchaeological Remains" program●Publications
Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties publishes periodicals such as Overview of Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, BULLETIN Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, NABUNKEN NEWS, CAO NEWS Centre for Archaeological Operations, and
NABUNKEN RONSO. It also publishes the results of various additional research studies.

Brief History

1952: Nara Cultural Properties Research Institute（consistingof the General Affairs Division, the Historical Research
Division, the Architecture Research Division, and the Art
Research Division）is established at 50 Kasugano-cho,Nara City, as an auxiliany organization of the National
Commission for the Protection of Cultural Properties
1954: R enamed as the Nara National Cultural Palace Site in
Sakihigashi-machi, Nara City
1960: T he office of the Heijo Palace Site Investigations opened in
the former Nara Place Site in Sakihigashi-machi, Nara City
1963: H eijo Palace Site Investigation Division is established
1968: A ffillated with the Agency for Culthural Affairs（established1968）
1970: N ara Palace Site Museum opened
1973: F inance Section, Asuka/Fujiwara Palace Site Investigation
Division, and Asuka Historical Museum established
1974: D epartment of General Affairs and the Center for
Archaeological Operations established
1975: Asuka Historical Museum opened at Okuyama in Asuka
Village, Nara
1980: A rt Research Division transferred to the Research Center
for Buddhist Art, Nara National Museum
1980: Relocated to 2-9-1 Nijo-cho, Nara City. Heijo Palace Site
Investigation Division and the Center for Archaeclogicaloperations are transferred together to the new site.
1988: N ew headquarters building of Asuka/Fujiwara Palace
Site Investigation Division built at 94-1 Kinomoto-cho,Kashihara City
2001: Restructured as the Independent Administrative Institution
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, Nara
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Institute for Cultural Heritage, as the Nara
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties.
2013: Relocated to temporary premises Iocated at 247-1 Sakicho, Nara City, while the original head office site is being
redeveloped.
2018: Following the completion of renovation work on the Institute’s headquarters building, the Institute was relocatedfrom temporary premises back to the renovated headquarters building

Facilities

（m2）
Land Area

Headquarters Area

Building
Building Area
8,879 Gross Floor Area

2,812
11,387

Located on government-owned Building Arealand, rent fees waivered Gross Floor Area

10,631
16,150Fujiwara Area

Building Area
20,515 Gross Floor Area

6,016
9,477

Asuka Area

Building Area
17,093 Gross Floor Area

2,657
4,404

Heijo Area

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

21

INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE
FOR INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE
IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION (IRCI)IWAMOTO Wataru
Director-General
International ResearchCentre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the
Asia-Pacific Region

At the 35th Session of UNESCO General Conference of October 2009, approval was given
to Japan to establish an international research centre for intangible cultural heritage in the
Asia-Pacific region. After this approval, the Japanese government concluded an agreementwith UNESCO in August 2010, and established the International Research Centre for
Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region (IRCI) in Sakai City in October
2011, as a Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO (institutions that serve tocontribute to the achievement of UNESCO’s strategic objectives).
IRCI’s objectives are to promote the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of theIntangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and its implementation, and to enhance the safeguardingof ICH through instigating and coordinating research in the Asia-Pacific region. Today,
many elements of ICH are endangered all over the world due to various factors. The
safeguarding of ICH is now undeniably an urgent issue. IRCI collaborates with universities,
research institutions, museums and NGOs in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region to promoteresearch on the practices and methodologies of ICH safeguarding.

■Activity Plan for FY 2022
IRCI promotes research as an international research hub for ICH safeguarding in the Asia-Pacific region while contributing to its enhancement using
Japan’s long-term experience in cultural heritage management. Medium-Term Programme (FY 2022–2026) focuses on the following activities:●Promoting Research for ICH Safeguarding●Research on the Safeguarding of ICH for Building Sustainable and Resilient Societies●Cooperating with Sakai City to Promote ICH
In FY 2022, IRCI will conduct the following projects.

●Promoting Research for ICH Safeguarding
１．Sustainable Research Data Collection for ICH Safeguarding
IRCI collects research information on ICH in various countries in the Asia-Pacific region in cooperation with researchers and research institutions.
The collected data are accessible on the IRCI Research Database (https://www.irci.jp/ichdb/). From FY 2022, IRCI has been collecting
research information focusing on Central Asia and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including Pacific countries, Maldives, and TimorLeste, by establishing a cooperative framework with local institutions. This project is expected to contribute to the enhancement of research on
safeguarding ICH by understanding research trends in these countries and identifying issues and challenges.
２．Creation of the Asia-Pacific Regional Hub of Research for the Safeguarding of ICH
This project, to be implemented from FY 2022 to 2026, aims to promote research for safeguarding ICH and strengthening ICH researcher
networks by developing a forum of ICH researchers and research institutions in the Asia-Pacific region and organising and managing various
programmes such as online seminars, researchers forums, symposia, and international conferences. Utilising online platforms, the programmes
under this project will invite a wide range of participants, including researchers, ICH practitioners, museum staff, and government officials. Online
seminars will be launched in FY 2022 as a start-up event for this project.

●Research on the Safeguarding of ICH for Building Sustainable and Resilient Societies
１．Research on ICH Contributing to SDGs: Intangible Cultural Heritage for Sustainable
Cities and Communities
IRCI investigated the roles of ICH in promoting SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 11(Sustainable Cities and Communities) in FY 2020–2021. From FY 2022, the project

Assembling the yurt by the residents in Kyrgyz

will focus on the role of ICH in maintaining and managing cultural and/or historicallandscapes, including world heritage sites, while deepening the discussion of integrated
approaches to safeguard both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

A community museum utilising yurt, a traditional
nomadic housing (Kyrgyzstan ©Taalim-Forum)

22

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

２．Research on ICH Safeguarding and Disaster Risk Management
Asia-Pacific countries are frequently exposed to various natural hazards, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, cyclones, floods, and volcanic
eruptions. Based on the outcome of the project undertaken in FY 2016–2018, this project aims to clarify the disaster risks and positive
aspects of ICH for disaster risk management (DRM), leading to the development of action plans to incorporate ICH and its safeguarding
in the community’s DRM. In FY 2022, a regional workshop will be held based on a desk study conducted in eight Asian-Pacific countries,
including Japan, followed by field research involving the commitment of both ICH and DRM researchers.
３．Research on ICH Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected ICH in various ways. While the pandemic limits human-to-human interaction, new ways of practisingand transmitting ICH have been reported. In FY 2021, a preparatory questionnaire survey was conducted in cooperation with research
institutes and researchers from nine countries in the Asia-Pacific region to better understand ICH. Based on the cases identified in thisquestionnaire survey, field research will be conducted in FY 2022 to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the practice, transmission,and safeguarding of ICH in detail, which should reveal the flexibility and adaptability of ICH and related communities.

●Cooperation with Sakai City to Promote ICH
IRCI is cooperating with Sakai City to promote and raise public awareness of ICH. For instance, panels introducing ICH and IRCI activities are
displayed at the Sakai City Museum, where the IRCI office is located. IRCI also collaborates in events and symposia organised by Sakai City forthe general public to deepen their understanding of ICH.

●Communications and Publicity
The IRCI Brochure, which includes pictures illustrating the latest research projects of IRCI, is published annually in Japanese and English anddistributed to UNESCO headquarters and field offices, Category 2 Centres, and the National Commissions for UNESCO in each country, as
well as to research institutes and universities at home and abroad. The mobile-friendly IRCI website (https://www.irci.jp/) is updated regularly
with information on the latest projects and activities. In addition, the following publications were published in FY 2021, which are alsoavailable in the PDF format on the website.
１．IRCI Brochure (Japanese/English)
２．Proceedings of the IRCI Researchers Forum on ICH Safeguarding in the Asia-Pacific Region “Progress and Challenges in the Research for
the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage –Towards a Sustainable Future –” (English)
３．Sustainable Research Data Collection for ICH Safeguarding in the Asia-Pacific Region: Project Report FY 2019–2021 (English)
４．Research on ICH’s Contribution to SDGs: Education and Community Development: Project Report FY 2020–2021 (English)

IRCI Brochure

Brief History

Proceedings of the IRCI Researchers
Forum on ICH Safeguarding in the
Asia-Pacific Region “Progress andChallenges in the Research for the
Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural
Heritage –Towards a Sustainable
Future –”Oct . 2009  : Establishment of IRCI authorized at the UNESCO General Conference
Aug. 2010: ‌Agreement for the establishment of IRCI concluded between theJapanese Government and UNESCO
Mar. 2011:   ‌Agreement for the opening of IRCI concluded between Sakai City and
the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
Apr . 2011:   Establishment of the preparatory office for IRCIOct. 2011:   Official opening of IRCI
Dec. 2018: A greement for the continuation of IRCI concluded between theJapanese Government and UNESCO
Mar. 2019: A greement for the continuation of IRCI concluded between Sakai Cityand the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage

Sustainable Research Data
Collection for ICH Safeguarding
in the Asia-Pacific Region:
Project Report FY 2019–2021

Research on ICH’s Contribution
to SDGs: Education andCommunity Development:
Project Report FY 2020–2021

Facilities
Buildings（m2）
Building Area

244.67Gross Floor Area

244.67

Number of Rooms

4※The Building is provided by Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

23

National Center for the Promotion of Cultural
Properties (CPCP)
Established in July 2018, the National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties(CPCP) aims to improve information infrastructures and develop new ways andopportunities to utilize cultural properties in a manner that allows people of all ages andregions to feel closer to Japan’s cultural heritage.

■Promoting model projects and developing content that enables
people to come into contact with cultural properties
ASAHI Mitsuru
Director
National Center for the
Promotion of Cultural
Properties

The CPCP works with businesses and various groups to enable more people to enjoy rich experiences with
cultural properties. It does so by utilizing advanced technology to develop reproductions of cultural propertiesand digital content (VR, 8K images, etc.). It also develops educational programs to facilitate the appreciation ofcultural properties. CPCP reproductions and content are utilized across Japan in hands-on displays at museums
and galleries and art appreciation lessons at schools, for example.

■Promoting the lending of items in the collectionsof national museums
The CPCP runs the National Museum Collection Loan Promotion Project, an initiative to lend
items related to each region from the collections of Japan’s four national museums to regional
museums across the country, with the CPCP bearing the costs of object transportation, etc.
As of FY2021, the project had led to the staging of exhibitions at 23 institutions (in 16
cities and prefectures). From here on, we will endeavor to give more people the opportunity toencounter the precious cultural properties of our national museums at their local museums.

■Consolidating the digital resources and databases
regarding cultural properties

An art appreciation program using reproductions

The CPCP runs ColBase (Integrated Collections Database of the National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage; https://colbase.nich.go.jp), a platform that enables users to search acrossthe collections of the four national museums and the Nara National Research Institute forCultural Properties, and e-Museum (https://emuseum.nich.go.jp), a platform that provides highresolution images and explanations (in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean) of National
Treasures and Important Cultural Properties in the aforementioned collections. We also handle
requests from museums wishing to use digital resources.

■Consultation and technical support concerning
the preservation of cultural properties

e-Museum

The CPCP offers consultation services, advice, research assistance and technical support
as needed regarding exhibition rooms, display cases, and storage environments at museums,
etc. We also support curators or other administrators engaged in preservation activities
at museums by holding practical workshops and courses that furnish participants withthe knowledge and technical abilities needed to display and store cultural properties in an
appropriate environment.

■Cultural property fundraising activities
The CPCP works to ensure that our cultural heritage can be passed down safely to the future
generations. To this end, we seek to expand our supporter base by raising awareness of andgarnering support for this work. Out initiatives to raise funds from individuals, companies andorganizations include disseminating information through our website and SNS, etc., preparing
activities for museum visitors, and running the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
Donation Portal Site.

24

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

Fund-raising project with Tokyo National Museum

Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management
Center

KOHDZUMA Yohsei

The Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Center was established on October 1,
2020, with the goal of protecting a diverse range of cultural heritage from frequentlyoccurring disasters.
The Center provides a structure for implementing integrated disaster risk management
initiatives across the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage (NICH). Headquartered in the
Nara National Research Institute of Cultural Properties, it works in tandem with the Cultural
Heritage Disaster Risk Management Project Team, comprised of staffs from two ResearchInstitutes and four National Museums of NICH family.
The Center undertakes various initiatives based on its three core missions of (1)reducing disaster risk in order to safeguard our cultural heritage, (2) building systems anddeveloping technologies to save disaster-hit cultural heritage as quickly as possible, and (3)providing support for rescue operations for cultural heritage when disasters actually occur.

Director
Cultural Heritage
Disaster Risk Management Center■Our 5 main initiatives●Building regional disaster prevention frameworks
The Center is building regional cultural heritage disaster prevention frameworks in close
cooperation with other institutions involved in the field of cultural heritage, such as local
governments, museums and galleries, universities and research institutions, and local
historical materials networks.
(1) We hold conferences and information-sharing meetings.
(2) We study regional cultural heritage disaster prevention frameworks.
(3) We support rescue operations for cultural heritage, etc. when disasters hit.
●Formulating guidelines for disasters
The Center is engaged in the formulation of guidelines to facilitate the swift commencementof cultural heritage rescue.
(1) We organize issues related to cultural heritage disaster prevention in each field.
(2) We deliberate over the necessary guidelines for rescue operations for cultural heritage
from each field.

The signing ceremony for the “Cooperation
Agreement on Damage Assessment, Technological
Support and Other Necessary Activities for theHistoric Building Conservation in the Event ofDisaster” an agreement with architectural relatedorganizations.

●Developing technologies related to the rescue, storage and display of cultural heritage
The Center is engaged in the development of technologies for the regular storage and displayof cultural heritage and for the emergency rescue of cultural heritage.
(1) We study potential risks to cultural heritage from disasters and how to deal with theserisks.
(2) B ased on conservation science and other related studies, we conduct research related
to degradation assessments for disaster-hit cultural heritage, stabilization measures andrestoration, preservation environments, and working conditions in disaster-hit areas.
●Raising awareness and disseminating information to promote cultural heritage disasterprevention
The Center seeks to raise awareness and spread knowledge on cultural heritage disasterprevention through instruction, advice, training, and other activities. The center disseminates
information about its activities to a wide audience both within Japan and overseas.
(1) W e help to train the personnel needed for regional disaster prevention frameworks byholding symposiums, lectures, workshops, and study groups for local government officials,
etc.
(2) We disseminate information within Japan and overseas regarding cultural heritage disasterprevention.
●Collecting and utilizing information related to cultural heritage disaster prevention
The Center collects information about cultural heritage disaster prevention and it examines
ways to utilize this information to improve the functionality of Japan’s cultural heritage
disaster prevention system.
(1) We collect, organize and share information about disasters that have impacted cultural
heritage or leading examples of cultural heritage disaster prevention.
(2) We collect the data needed to construct databases related to cultural heritage disasterprevention and we study ways to utilize this data in disaster prevention.
(3) W e collect data related to the sites of historical disasters and we promote themanagement and utilization of databases, etc.
(4) W e acquire new knowledge related to overseas disaster prevention initiatives andconservation methods for disaster-hit cultural heritage, and we contribute to disasterprevention in other countries.
(5) We convene the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Network Promotion Council
and the Advisory Committee for Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management to grasp
issues related to cultural heritage disaster prevention.

A shaking-table experiment of replicated museum
gallery (National Research Institute for Earth
Science and Disaster Resilience Hyogo Earthquake
Engineering Research Center)

A workshop on the emergency treatment ofwater-damaged paper materials

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

25

Ⅳ Reference Materials
Directors（As of April 1, 2022）
SHIMATANI Hiroyuki: P resident (Executive Director, Kyushu
National Museum)

HAYASHIDA Suma: Director
KURUSHIMA Noriko: Auditor

NAGAYAMA Yuji: Director

INAGAKI Masato: Auditor

SAITO Takamasa: Director (Director General, Tokyo National
Reseach Institute for Cultural Properties)

Special Advisory Board（As of April 1, 2022, titles omitted）
We have a board of special advisors, consisting of professionals drawn from outside the institutes, to gather various opinionsfrom many fields concerning the management of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage. The mission of the Special Advisory Board is to give advice to the Chairperson of the Board about important issues related to the management of the Institutes.
The number of board members is set at 20, and each member serves renewable 2-year terms.
AOYAGI Toshihiko: Representative Director and Chairman of
the Board, Kyushu Railway Company

TANABE Ikuo: Chief, Gangoji institute for research of culturalproperty

IKENOBO Senko: Headmaster Designate of Ikenobo

DAN Fumi: Actress

ITO Yoshiaki: President, Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum
and Director, Machida City Museum

NISHITAKATSUJI Nobuyoshi: C hairman of the Board, Dazaifu
Tenmangu Shrine

UEHARA Mahito: Professor Emeritus, Kyoto University

NISHIMURA Yasuhiko: G rand Steward, Imperial Household
Agency

UMEMOTO Kazuyoshi: President, The Japan Foundation

FUJII Joji: Professor Emeritus, Kyoto University

OSAKA Eriko: President, Independent Administrative Institution National Museum of Art

FURUSE Natsuko: Professor Emeritus, Ochanomizu University

KINOSHITA Naoyuki: D irector, Shizuoka Prefectural Museumof Art

HOKOI Shuichi: Professor Emeritus, Kyoto University
WADA Koichi: Commissioner, The Japan Tourism Agency

SATO Teiichi: F o r m e r A m b a s s a d o r E x t r a o r d i n a r y a n dPlenipotentiary to the UNESCO

External Evaluation Board（As of April 1, 2022, titles omitted）
Besides implementing self-evaluation of the Institutes’ operational, survey and research performance, The National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage have also established an External Evaluation Board of external experts to verify the Institutes’ assessment of
their own performance.（Renewable 2-year terms）
OKUBO Junichi: Professor, National Museum of Japanese
History

DEGAWA Tetsurou: Honorary Director, Museum of Oriental
Ceramics, Osaka

OGASAWARA Naoshi: P resident, Avantia GP

TERASAKI Yasuhiro: P rofessor Emeritus, Nara University

KURIMOTO Yasuji: P rofessor, Institute of Wood Technology,
Akita Prefectural University

TERADA Yoshitaka: Professor Emeritus, National Museumof Ethnology

KOJIMA Kaoru: Department of Aesthetics and Art History,
Faculty of Humanities Professor, Jissen
Women’s University

NAGOYA Akira: Former Deputy Director of the Gotoh Museum and Deputy Director of Fudenosato Kobo
HAMADA Hiroaki: Professor, J. F. Oberlin University

KOMATSU Taishu: Director, Eisei-Bunko Museum

FUJII Keisuke: Professor Emeritus, Tokyo University

SAKAKIBARA Satoru: Specially Appointed Director, Okazaki
City Museum
SAKAMOTO Hiroko: ( Full-Time) Audit & Supervisory Board
Member, The Asahi Shimbun Company

Number of Staff
Division
Total

Total staff

Administrative
staff

Technical andsecurity staff

Specialists

Curators/
Researchers
209

398

151

20

18

National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Secretariat

26

26

0

0

0

National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties

22

6

0

5

11

8

1

0

0

7

Tokyo National Museum

Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Center

111

38

12

9

52

Kyoto National Museum

44

19

5

1

19

Nara National Museum

33

15

3

1

14

Kyushu National Museum

26

9

0

0

17

Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

41

8

0

1

32

Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

83

26

0

1

56

4

3

0

0

1

International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage
in the Asia-Pacific Region（As of April 1, 2022）

26

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

Organizational Chart
Organizational
Chart
President

Auditor
Audit Office

National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Secretariat
Secretary - General

Directors

General Affairs
Financial Affairs
Accounting
Facilities andOperations Division

National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties

Planning
Loan Promotion

Secretary General

Director

Digital Resources
Conservation
General Affairs

Tokyo National Museum

Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Center

Kyoto National Museum

DeputyDirector

Director

Supervising
Manager

Nara National Museum

Research Division
General Affairs

Kyushu National Museum
Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties
Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties
International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region

BudgetFiscal Year 2022 Budget
Estimated Income

Source（Unit: JPY1,000）
Fiscal 2022

Fiscal 202１

Self-generated Income

1,328,911

1,032,072

Government funding for operating expenses

8,918,489

9,051,943

796,784

796,129

0

0

Others (Donations, etc.)

787,530

798,736

Total

11,831,714

11,678,880

Income from commissioned projects
Grant for facilities improvement

Estimated Expenditure
PurposeOperational expenses（Unit: JPY1,000）
Fiscal 2022

Fiscal 2021
10,247,400

10,084,015

Personnel

3,871,865

3,809,000

Supply costs

6,375,535

6,275,015

796,784

796,129

0

0

Others (Donations, etc.)

787,530

798,736

Total

11,831,714

11,678,880

Expenses for commissioned projects
Facility improvement

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

27

Income from External Sources
Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research①

Fiscal 2022

Number of
projects②

Amount（Unit：JPY1,000）

Funding forCommissioned Work
（Fiscal 2021）

Multi-year Fund Fiscal 2022

Number of
projects

Amount（Unit: JPY1,000）

Number of
projects

Research Grants（Fiscal 2021）

Amount（Unit: JPY1,000）

Number of
projects

Amount（Unit: JPY1,000）

National Institutes
for Cultural Heritage
Secretariat

0

0

0

0

3

160,737

00Tokyo National Museum

8

20,08028

18,5903

26,861

3

2,366

Kyoto National Museum

423,270

6

1,560

1

71,101

1750

Nara National Museum

1

4,420

4

1,690

1

11,366

5

1,964

Kyushu National Museum

5

23,530

7

8,125

5

24,176

1

700Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

18

54,72324

22,7508

101,224

5

2,530

Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

21

108,670

47

47,19040

247,38411

1,676International ResearchCentre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the
Asia-Pacific Region

0

0

1

0

2

37,09200

57

234,693

117

99,905

63

679,942

26

9,986

Total

※The amount of ① is the appropriation amount as of April, 2022.
※In the case of projects that extend over multiple fiscal years, the amount given under ② shows the amount allocated to that year when the decision to provide
the grant was first made.
※Please note that the figures given include indirect expenses.
※Funding for commissioned work excludes commissions from the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage.

Information about Donation and Membership○Financial Donations and Cultural Property Donations【Financial Donations】

Independent Administrative Institutions are mainly administered through national grants for operational costs and facilities improvement.
However, difficult financial conditions and the streamlining of operations makes it necessary to receive outside funds as well. The National
Institutes for Cultural Heritage is no exception and we also need to secure other funding sources besides income from admission fees. For
these reasons, we welcome financial support from a wide range of organizations and individuals.
The National Institutes for Cultural Heritage has been designated by the National Tax Agency as a Special Public-Interest Promotion
Corporation. This means that donations to our institutions（by organizations or individuals）are eligible for more generous income and corporate
tax deductions than donations to regular private entities.

【Cultural Property Donations】

The National Institutes for Cultural Heritage is engaged in the preservation, management, research and display of cultural properties. In
addition to purchasing these cultural properties systematically, we also accept donations from individuals or organizations.

For further information about donations, please contact the following departments:
Institution

Financial Donations

Cultural Property Donations

Phone Numbers

Tokyo National Museum

Accounting, Administration
Department

Collections Management,
Curatorial Research Department

03-3822-1111

Kyoto National Museum

Department of Finance

Department of Registration andImage Services

075-541-1151

Nara National Museum

Accounts

Curatorial Division, Planning
Section0742-22-4454
0742-22-7774

Kyushu National Museum

Finance Office, General Affairs
Division

Cultural Properties Registration
Section, Cultural Properties Division092-918-2807

Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

Department of Research Support and Promotion, Planning Section

03-3823-2249

Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

Department of Research Support and Promotion, Administration Division0742-30-3916

General Affairs Section

072-275-8050

International ResearchCentre for Intangible Cultural
Heritage in the Asia-PacificRegion (IRCI)The “National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Donation Portal Site” has opened.
The “National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Donation Portal Site” introduces the donation and membership systems for our National
Museums and National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

28

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

○MembershipTokyo National Museum, Nara National Museum and Kyushu National Museum are supported by the Supporting Member System,
while Kyoto National Museum is supported by the Seifukai Association.
To encourage people to visit our museums more frequently, Tokyo National Museum, Kyoto National Museum, Nara National
Museum and Kyushu National Museum have all established their own membership systems. In addition, to mark the 10th
anniversary of the establishment of the National Institutions for Cultural Heritage, a new “National Museums Members Pass”
system was established, which applies to all four National Museums.

【National Museum Members Pass】
Tokyo National Museum
AnnualMembership
Fee

Kyoto National Museum

Nara National Museum

Kyushu National Museum

Regular2,500 yen (tax included)

Student

1,200 yen (tax included)

Permanent
Exhibitions

Tokyo National Museum: Regular Exhibitions
Kyoto National Museum: Collection Galleries
Nara National Museum: Exhibition from the Permanent Collection
Kyushu National Museum: Cultural Exchange Exhibition• On showing your Members Pass, you can view any of these permanent collection
exhibitions an unlimited number of times (this applies only to the person in whosename the Members Pass is registered)

OthersSpecial Exhibitions at Kyoto National Museum, Nara National Museum and Kyushu
National Museum can be viewed an unlimited number of times at the group ticket price(only when group discounts are available)• On showing your Members Pass at a National Museum ticket oﬃce, you can purchasea special exhibition ticket at the group ticket price (this applies only to the person inwhose name the Members Pass is registered)• Students can purchase a special exhibition ticket at the student price, which is thesame as the group ticket price (this applies only to the person in whose name theMembers Pass is registered)SpecialPrivileges

Inquiries

Business Development
Administrative Division Administrative Division General Aﬀairs Division
Administration Dept.
075‑541‑1151
0742‑22‑4450
092‑918‑2807
03‑3822‑1111【Campus Members System】

Each of the four National Museums has its own membership programs for universities and colleges. These programs are aimed
at deepening cooperation with institutions of higher education and providing opportunities for their students to become familiar
with the National Museums. Members can enjoy various privileges, including free admission to regular exhibitions, for a yearly
membership fee corresponding to the number of students.

○New Initiatives by the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage (NICH)

The NICH endeavors to make museums more attractive to visitors from Japan and overseas by disseminating information (object
explanations, captions and audio guides, etc.) in English, Chinese and Korean and by offering explanations that are easy tounderstand, even for people with minimal knowledge of Japanese traditional culture and arts.
We strive to make museums more in tune with the ʻnew lifestylesʼ that emerged during the pandemic and we also develop
digital content, run online educational programs, and implement public relations initiatives.
The NICH requires funding to improve the quality of our operations and ensure their stable continuity. We endeavor to obtain
this funding from a variety of sources. We run membership programs, promote fundraising activities, make eﬀective use of ourunique venues and other property holdings, and work to obtain competitive funding, for example.

A video on YouTube (Tokyo National Museum)

Introduction of a new audio guide system,
NaviLens, at Kyushu National Museum

A crowdfunding project to repair the
Hassōan Teahouse and its garden(Nara National Museum)

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2022

29

Tokyo National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties

JR U
gu
Statiisudanion

National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage Secretariat
International
Library ofChildren’s
LiteratureWest Gate

TOKYO NATIONAL
MUSEUM

KurodaMemorial Hall◀To Tokyo
Metro Nezu
StationMain Gate

National Museum of
Nature and Science

Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum
FountainNational Museumof Western Art
Park Exit

Ueno park
Ueno Zoo

Tokyo Metropolitan
Festival Hall

JR UenoStation

Police Box

N
NTokyo Metro
Ueno Station

Keisei Ueno
StationAccess:
JR Line: 10 min. from Ueno or Uguisudani Station
Ginza or Hibiya Tokyo Metro Line: 15 min. from Ueno Station
Chiyoda Tokyo Metro Line: 15 min. from Nezu Station
Keisei Line: 15 min. from Keisei Ueno Station

13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8712
Phone: +81-3-3822-1196

URL: https://www.nich.go.jp/